“Now it came to pass, about eight days after these sayings, that He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening. 30 And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, 31 who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 But Peter and those with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men who stood with Him. 33 Then it happened, as they were parting from Him, that Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were fearful as they entered the cloud. 35 And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” 36 When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone. But they kept quiet, and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen. ” Luke 9:28-36 NKJV
God of Glory,
What a wonderful place to get stuck. Up on the mountain with Jesus! I wonder if the disciples were tired after the climb up the mountainside or were naturally tired and heavy with sleep? Perhaps Jesus conversation with Elijah and Moses was private . . . but they did wake and see them and Jesus glorified. I wonder if they looked at each other to see if the other was also seeing it? Amazing experience. Then Peter puts his foot in it, as we say, and asks if they should build tabernacles.
I have empathy with Peter. As someone once suggested – it is best to put ones brain into gear before opening one’s mouth! But he was trying to be helpful, he was out of his depth. We too get it wrong sometimes and we miss an opportunity or we say something silly, not helpful. No matter. We do not hinder You. You spoke from the cloud. This is My beloved Son. Hear Him.
Thank You that we can hear You and Your Son by Your Spirit. When we are out of our depth, You help us. Whether we are on a mountain top, in a valley or amid the mundane at home You are our encouragement. Keep our ears open to hear and our mouths ready and – awaiting understanding.
In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
God of Glory,
We pray,
For all our family, friends, neighbours, and our church family. For their individual needs, for miracles and strength and help.
For ministers, pastors, congregations and all that is done by those belonging to churches to support, help and bless their local communities. Draw people in to ask about You.
For our Government, that You would reveal sin, oust it and guide them to truth, for the good of the nation. Help their ears hear You and their mouths speak truth.
For our King and Queen and their family and lead them in paths of righteousness and goodness.
For Gaza and the Middle East, Lord a miracle of peace.
For Putin and Ukraine. An full stop an end to war and conflict and bloodshed.
For those in the midst of conflict, that they would hear of Your love.
For those who need the right words to speak. Teachers, parents, counsellors, doctors, friends, all those in law, Government and friends.
For ourselves, that we would know those moments when we are assured we are loved by You, as Jesus was, and You are still on the throne of glory.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Friday 17th November 2023
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus
To reach out and touch Him
And say that we love Him
Open our ears Lord
And Help us to listen
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus
To reach out and touch Him
And say that we love Him
Open our ears Lord
And Help us to listen
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus
Lyrics: Robert Cull