Be Still & Listen!

Leading up to His death on the cross, Jesus decided it would be good for a few of His disciples to see who He really was.  He did this through Peter, James and John.  Leading the three men on top of a high mountain, Jesus decided not to hold back His glory any longer.  In Matthew 17:2 scripture tells us “There he was transfigured before them.” 

The definition of transfigure:

 [trænsˈfɪgə] vb (usually tr)

1. to change or cause to change in appearance

2. to become or cause to become more exalted

The second part of verse 2 states that “His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became white as light.”  As if that wasn’t cool enough, Elijah and Moses show up during this process and begin a conversation with Jesus.  To a Jewish man back in the time of Jesus, Moses and Elijah were like rock stars.  In other words, Peter James and John were getting the full show!  It was almost more than they could spiritually and emotionally handle.

In verse 4 Peter is so excited that he feels the need to be doing something to add to the experience.  He suggests that the three of them get busy building shelters- one for Jesus and one each for Moses and Elijah. 

God gets Peter, James and John’s attention by enveloping them in a bright cloud.  He tells them “This is my Son, with whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!”

As I read this true story, I am so convicted.  I am like Peter in many ways.  I am a doer.  When the going gets rough or in times of excitement, often I feel like the need to be doing something.  In response to God’s work, many times I try to add to what He is doing to make it better.  How arrogant of me.

God instructs the three men to be still.  He is telling them “STOP!  You are missing the show!  Quit trying to do!  For now, just listen and enjoy.”

Everyday we are in the presence of God.  Look for Him in His word and through His creation and be still.  Enjoy the show!  Sometimes God just wants us to be still and listen.