“Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him,” Luke 9:32
Last week Sherry and I took Beth and John on a hiking trip. We were amazed at the startling contrast between the temperature in the valley verses the temperature on the mountain top. In some places the differences was 10 degrees.
This mornings readings, “Lk 9:28-48,” also present to us a startling contrast. This section of Luke begins with:
The glory on the mountain
Jesus takes Peter, James, and John on a hiking trip. Jesus leads them to the mountain to pray. Once these men arrive they see more than they could imagine. God’s glory is revealed to these men. A voice comes from heaven reminding these men that Jesus is God’s Son. The presence of Elijah and Moses was a reminder of Jesus fulfillment of the prophecies of the coming of the Messiah and the fulfillment of the law. In Jesus we see our Redeemer and Lord.
The gloom in the valley
On the next day these men would come down from the mountain and they would experience the gloom in the valley. Here the other 9 disciples had been unable to cast out a demon from a young man. Here we see Hell’s presence at work. But praise God we also see Heaven’s power over hell. Jesus cast out the demon and gives the young man back to his father. The people were amazed at the majesty of God.
In this moment we are startled as we see the picture before us. Because of the cross, you and I who live in the valley of life will some day see the glory of God. I John 3:2-3 reminds us of this reality.
As long as we live here we will deal with the gloom of the valley. However we have assured victory in Christ.
Maybe this day, “You have lost sight of this truth.” Maybe you are feeling the weight of the gloom in the valley? If so, look forward because your redemption draws near. Weeping only endures for the night and joy comes in the morning. Child of God you are headed up the mountain in Christ and because of Christ. You will arrive at God’s appointed time at the top of the mountain (Heaven) and you will bow before the glory of the Lord.