Today’s scripture: Mark 9:2-13 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Brent Walsh):
Imagine this: In an effort to bridge the generational gap between servants of God, Jesus decides to call a meeting of some of the greatest preachers of one generation with the greatest of another. On one side of the conference table you have Martin Luther King, Jr. sitting next to Billy Graham. On the other side you have Troy Perry sitting between Joyce Meyer and Billy Sunday. As the introductions go around the table, it’s your turn to speak. You’ve not had a very good track record of saying the right things at the right times, but you have to say something.
“Hi, everyone!” you stammer nervously. You’re so star-struck, and no one is saying anything! “I just think it’s so great we could all be here together like this. I know you have all come a very long way for this meeting, and I want to make everyone as comfortable as possible. We may be here for a while, after all. There’s a lot to talk about, and this is such a great opportunity! Can I get anyone some coffee? Diet Coke? Maybe a pillow for your back? Or a blanket, even? Anyone?”
Everyone is just looking at you and you can tell they’re waiting for you to shut up. Your face goes beet red. All your good intentions just sounded like a child’s ramblings. “How could I be so stupid?” you wonder silently. “A blanket? Seriously?!”
This may be what Peter felt like when he found himself on the mountaintop. There he was with Jesus and his inner circle. Then appeared two of the greatest leaders of the Old Testament days, Elijah and Moses. It’s as if Jesus wanted to pull the Old and New Testaments together in a symbolic gesture of unity.
Peter seemed to be so excited about this spiritual euphoria. He wanted to stay there as long as possible, no doubt the way we all feel when we’re surrounded by fellow worshippers and the Holy Spirit settles in among us. So Peter suggested they make everyone comfortable so they could spend more time together. “Let’s build three shelters, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
But he missed the point. While we can enjoy the times of spiritual renewal that come with having a close relationship with Jesus Christ, we cannot just camp out on the mountaintop. We must enjoy the mountain moments we are given, and then move on to continue the work God has for us to do.
Thought for the day: Have you ever felt let down when a “spiritual high” faded? The mountaintops will surely come again, but for now there’s work to do on the plains and in the valleys.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.