God's GloryParaugs

Encouragement in the midst of suffering: Jesus' glorification on the mountain

“And as He [Jesus] was praying, the appearance of His face was altered, and His clothing became dazzling white.” (Luke 9:29)

Jesus had a group of followers, the disciples, whom He taught a lot about His Kingdom. He told them several times that He would have to suffer and die. The disciples found that hard to understand; they had hoped for a ‘success story’ for Jesus — and for themselves. But following Jesus does not usually bring us honor and fame. It can even cost you everything: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me”, Jesus says in Luke 9:23.

This message was not easy for the disciples, or for Jesus Himself. Suffering, rejection, death... But in between all these predictions and warnings is an encouraging story. Jesus went up a mountain with three of His disciples to pray, and there they saw His glory. They heard God's voice: “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!” (Luke 9:35) and Jesus talked to Moses and Elijah about the way He must go.

God gives all present a glimpse of the reality behind the earthly struggles, as a kind of encouragement. Jesus had to suffer, but then He was glorified.

His Kingdom will triumph! Do you find it hard to follow Jesus?