Game On!’ Luke 9:28-36
Sunday is the big game. The football season ends with the Super Bowl clash. For many anticipation for the day to arrive mounts until finally they can sit down and feel the rush and excitement and with the teams declare, “Game On!” This year we celebrate on the same day an event in the life of Christ that brings insight into our very core of existence as redeemed children of God and yes it is a “Game On Experience.”
Walk alongside Peter, James and John as they followed Christ up to the top of a mountain to pray. Why were you chosen to accompany Jesus, why does He want you with Him are questions running through your mind? You don’t know what is going to happen but does it ever feel good to be chosen. A few days ago Jesus said He must die and then be raised in three days. What did He mean and what will you see today?
Reaching the mountain top, you see Jesus kneel and pray. You kneel with Peter, James and John and pray but soon all of you doze off. Suddenly you hear Peter cry out, “Let’s build three shelters.” You look and you see Jesus as a blazing light, clothed in a dazzling white robe talking to Elijah and Moses. Then the voice of God declares, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!” You fall on your knees as you know you are in the presence of God. Then Jesus touches you saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” Matt.17:7 Never the same, you walk toward the rest of your life.
We correctly name what has been witnessed as the Transfiguration of Jesus and that is correct but as we ourselves witness the divinity of Christ we are also transfigured and by His grace we declare “Game On!” Interesting how the early church fathers designed the Church Year to have us remember and celebrate the Transfiguration of Christ and then move into the season of Lent where we contemplate the suffering Servant. The contrast is startling as Ash Wednesday falls in the same week as Transfiguration Sunday. Jesus, the “Loved Son of God,” the brilliant light died for us. Ready, to start that walk down the mountain? It’s time, have no fear, “Game On!”
Question of the week: Are there any other appearance for Peter, James, and John alone with the Lord Jesus Christ beside at the Transfiguration of Christ?
Answer: There are two other appearances where only Peter, James, and John was alone with Christ that is recorded in Scriptures. One was in a garden (Matthew 26:37, Mark 14:33) and another was with a young girl. (Mark 5:37, Luke 8:51)
