Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule:
Matthew 17-18
Matthew 17:5-7
5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.
7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.
Peter and James and John were the most intimate disciples of Jesus, constituting, the Lord’s inner circle. It is not surprising that it was these three men whom He brought up to a high mountain by themselves.
Why do you think Jesus took these men to see the transfiguration? I believe it was because they would be reliable witnesses of His revealed glory. They would be able to confirm this special event to the other disciples and to the rest of us. These men were the ones who understood Him the best, and they frequently accompanied Him when He went away for times of intense fellowship with His Heavenly Father. I certanily think it is fitting that those who would share His suffering and sorrow would also share in witnessing His glory. It is a special joy to have people in my life who know me so well that they are able to share life with all its twists and turns and to know they simply understand me.
When God spoke from heaven and Jesus stood before them robed in all His glory, the disciples fell down afraid. Jesus kindly went to these trusted friends and says, “Arise, and be not afraid.” God reinforces the important message for all of humanity to listen to Christ and obey His commands. It is the same message He is telling us today.
Prayer Requests:
Personal
- Lord, please help me to be the kind of friend that can be trusted to share the most critical of times.
- Lord, please help me to be the kind of servant that you can trust to listen carefully to your commands and obey them.
- Lord, please help me to be humble in your presence and when God is speaking, respond obediently.
Political
- Representative Joseph Bellino
- Representative Lynn Afendoulis
- US Representative Jack Bergman