On This Rock: The Hidden Way
The Church that Jesus is building is a beacon of the Good News. That there is Someone who can free you completely from the bondage self and sin, from the idols of autonomy, from the oppression of self centred and selfish living and invite you into a story full of risk, adventure joy and meaning.
In fact, the scene at the transfiguration (as it's normally called) offers a strange parallel and contrast to the crucifixion (Matthew 27.33-54). If you're going to meditate on the one, you might like to hold the other in your mind as well, as a sort of backdrop. Here, on a mountain, is Jesus, revealed in glory; there, on a hill outside Jerusalem, is Jesus, revealed in shame. Here his clothes are shining white; there, they have been stripped off, and soldiers have gambled for them. Here he is flanked by Moses and Elijah, two of Israel's greatest heroes, representing the law and the prophets; there, he is flanked by two brigands, representing the level to which Israel had sunk in rebellion against God. Here, a bright cloud overshadows the scene; there, darkness comes upon the land. Here Peter blurts out how wonderful it all is; there, he is hiding in shame after denying he even knows Jesus. Here a voice from God himself declares that this is his wonderful son; there, a pagan soldier declares, in surprise, that this really was God's son. The mountain-top explains the hill-top - and vice versa. Perhaps we only really understand either of them when we see it side by side with the other. Learn to see the glory in the cross; learn to see the cross in the glory; and you will have begun to bring together the laughter and the tears of the God who hides in the cloud, the God who is to be known in the strange person of Jesus himself. This story is, of course, about being surprised by the power, love and beauty of God. But the point of it is that we should learn to recognize that same power, love and beauty within Jesus, and to listen for it in his voice - not least when he tells us to take up the cross and follow him.
~ NT Wright
As you reflect on the past day or week how have you seen the power, love, and beauty of God in the good things and in the bad things?
Are there invitations from God in your life to grow in humility? Are there patterns of thought or situations where you feel tempted to not turn towards humility but instead towards pride?
What are some ways that Jesus is inviting you to see the unique ways that he has formed you and loves you?
Where has Jesus placed you physically, and how might he be inviting you to partner with him in reconciling all things to himself?