Joshua Grubbs
Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters – one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what to say they were so frightened.)
The story of Jesus’ transfiguration, as recounted in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, is one of my favorite stories in the Bible. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John to a high mountain, and there Jesus was “transfigured,” and His glory was shown on full display to the disciples present. Elijah and Moses even appeared as well, talking with Jesus!
It is always important to ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do?” It is also important to ask ourselves, “What did Jesus’ closest followers do while they were with the Lord?” Jesus is the Word of God made flesh, and while we strive to “be perfect as [our] heavenly Father is perfect” (Matt 5:48), we know that this perfection isn’t something we’ll experience this side of eternity. But the imperfections, the flaws, the bickering, and the fears of Jesus’ disciples? We experience these things every single day!
Peter’s reaction in Mark 9:5-6 is just so human. Faced with the unveiled glory of the incarnate second person of the Trinity, he blurts out the first ridiculous thing that comes to mind – building tents! While we don’t get this in the text, I can’t help but imagine that Peter was stammering and stumbling as he tried to get out his words. How could he not? I sure know I would have! Does Jesus ridicule or chastise Peter? Absolutely not – Jesus tells Peter not to be afraid.
The Christian life and the call of Christ can be terrifying. We can often feel unsure, confused, and deeply afraid. When faced with any number of dramatic events, we can certainly find ourselves stumbling and stammering like Peter. But Jesus has called us to this life, and He will not abandon us, no matter what. We simply must trust Him and believe it when He says don’t be afraid.
Pray with me
Lord, I rarely have everything figured out. I love you and want to serve you well. Help me to walk boldly in the Christian life, even if at times I stumble and don’t have the words. Amen.
