Ten Minutes for Teachers
Feb. 18, 2007
Vol. 6, Issue 3

Devotion:

Have you ever climbed your way to the top of a mountain? I’m not talking about Everest or anything - just a place “above it all.” Maybe some place overlooking valleys or maybe all the way up where clouds surround you.

If you have been up on a mountain, you likely have a mental picture – locked away forever because of the striking beauty or grandeur it represented. I can remember the first time I stood on top of one of the Rockies – about 13,000 above sea level. My senses seemed fully attuned, and everything around me seemed more alive. There was a giddiness and joy surrounding the whole experience.

This Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday, and this year we get to experience it through Luke’s Gospel. Jesus transfiguration truly is a summit; it is a high point in his ministry. After being revealed in glory – and in excellent company with Moses and Elijah, two Israelite heroes – Jesus hears one more time the Father’s affirmation, “This is My Son, My Chosen One; listen to him!” After this, Luke tells us Jesus becomes resolute about going to Jerusalem, where he will hear the taunting voices of men instead of the encouragement from his Father.

Jesus’ journey from being a Bethlehem baby to a Calvary Christ was a path he was destined for, but just because it was destiny does not mean it was easy. In fact, being able to discern and foresee where he was headed would have made his journey even more taxing. All of which only adds to the significance and importance of Jesus’ Transfiguration.

Up on the mountain everything is heightened: Jesus’ call, the disciples’ own awareness of Jesus’ identity, God’s will. For a moment, things are picture perfect and perfectly clear.

Something to Chew On:

God, the Father, urges the disciples to “listen” to Jesus. Actually, it is a command, “listen to Him!”

When we gather together as a community on Sunday’s we have many reasons to do so: to remember one another in prayer, to hear concerns and joys, to teach, to learn. We also come to listen. In particular, Sunday school and worship are two environments where we determine to listen. We heed God’s command. I hope this reality does not get lost among the many good reasons to join the body of Christ.
 
Prayer for the day:

“Holy God, your glory and power energize our lives. Bathe us in the warm glow of your love and faithfulness. Transform us each day to live as part of your story.”  Seasons of the Spirit (ages 12-14), pg. 69.