For the Joy Set Before Him: Jesus's Final Journey to Jerusalemනියැදිය

Departure at Jerusalem

Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious splendor, talking with Jesus. They spoke about his departure, which he was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem. Luke 9:30-31 (NIV)

Shortly after he first revealed his coming suffering, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a mountain to pray. While the gospels do not name the specific mountain, it was possibly Mount Hermon near Caesarea Philippi, the site of Peter’s bold profession of faith (Mark 8:27). Jesus began to pray as he normally did; Peter, James, and John drifted into a heavy sleep.

Suddenly, something extraordinary happened: Jesus was transformed! His appearance changed dramatically. Matthew describes his face shining like the sun (Matthew 17:2), while Luke writes of his clothes turning bright as lightning. Then, two prominent figures appeared—Moses and Elijah—the prophets referenced in the closing verses of the very last book of the Old Testament (Malachi 4:4-5).

Luke informs readers that Moses and Elijah spoke with Jesus about his imminent “departure” in Jerusalem, a word in Greek which may also be translated into English as “exodus.” What might they have discussed? Were Moses and Elijah listening with deep compassion as Jesus shared about the weight he carried over what was to come? Did they marvel that the redemptive plan that was finally about to unfold—a plan Moses and Elijah had long anticipated?

In contrast, Peter, James and John, oblivious to what lay ahead, struggled to awaken from their sleep. When they saw Moses and Elijah turn to leave, Peter blurted without thinking, “Master, we can build three shelters—one for each of you!” At that moment a cloud overshadowed them and brought a singular focus onto Jesus. Here was no ordinary prophet, but God’s beloved Son (Deuteronomy 18:15).

Descending the mountain, Jesus seems to display a growing tension over what lay ahead. "How long must I put up with you!" he exclaims to his disciples. When speaking to them of his death for the second time, he urges, "Let this truth sink into your ears." The disciples, overwhelmed and confused, are afraid to bring him their questions.

Reflection

Put yourself in the shoes of Peter, James, and John:

• What are you thinking when you see Jesus transformed before your very eyes?
• How does it feel to be in the presence of Moses and Elijah? Can you hear the conversation they are having with Jesus?
• Can you sense the growing tension Jesus feels as he prepares for what lies ahead?

In these moments, the disciples are unable to show up for Jesus in the way that he needs. When have you felt unable to show up for someone in the way that they needed? When have you experienced someone fail at showing up for you in the way that you needed?