Jesus chose Peter, James, and John to experience his transfiguration. They were his inner circle. However, they have been struggling to understand Jesus' identity and plan. Peter's initial reaction to the experience is one of pleasure and a desire to camp out on the high mountain (places of worship were high places). The voice from the clouds interrupts Peter's proposal and instructs him to listen as to say: "Shut up! Listen to Jesus!"
The voice terrifies the disciples and they fall on their faces (a worship pose). It seems they closed their eyes until Jesus came to comfort them. The Law and the Prophets pointed to the Messiah. The vision exalted Jesus above them to highlight the centrality of his person in God's plan for humanity. God's message to the world is in Jesus only. God's love to the world is demonstrated in Jesus only. God's plan for the world is revealed in Jesus only.
Like the disciples, I am not listening. The Law and the Prophets was meant to point to Jesus. Unfortunately, it became Tradition that stood in the way of understanding Jesus. My sinful nature finds ways of twisting what God intends for good into evil. My attachment to traditions blind and bind me so I cannot see and act upon what God intends. Like Peter, I am quick to speak and slow to listen blabbering on and on about secondary issues. Then, when I am confronted with reality and the truth of God's plan, I am paralyzed by fear. Fear of what it means; fear of what it demands of me. Jesus only is all I need. I yearn for his voice calling me: "Rise, and have no fear."
Father, may your Son be the focus of my life. May nothing distract me from him. May nothing prevent me from listening to him.
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