Shortly after breakfast, Jesus approaches you and says, "I'm planning on hiking to the top of the mountain today. I'd like you to come along. Are you up for it?"
You smile and reply, "Of course. Isn't everyone?"
"I haven't asked everyone. I was hoping just a few of us could spend the day together. Peter and James have already agreed to come too."
The sun was already feeling warm as you walked towards the mountain. Jesus was in a good mood. He shared a few amusing stories about his days as a carpenter. Each of you, in turn, shared your own funny stories. The storytelling and laughter made the time pass quickly. As you keep climbing the mountain, Jesus pauses for a moment, looks at you, and asks, "Which of my teachings are you finding most difficult?" You take a deep breath in and honestly consider His question. Spend a few minutes talking to Jesus about this.
At the end of your conversation, Jesus announces it's time to rest. Hours have passed, and you are all exhausted. It feels good to lie on the ground. You close your eyes for a minute, recalling the conversation you just had with Jesus, and unintentionally drift into a peaceful nap. That is, until you feel a strong slap across your arm.
"Get up, get up, get up!" Peter's voice has a strange sense of urgency and excitement.
Although you are now awake, what you see before you resembles a dream. What is happening? Clearly, that is Jesus talking with two men, but you have never seen men look like that. It is Jesus who captivates you the most. His appearance is mesmerizing. Light wasn't shining on Him; it was emanating from Him. Words completely fail you as you try to understand what is happening. Suddenly, Peter begins talking about making tents. What is he talking about? We didn't bring any supplies, and are those men actually real?
Your thoughts, however, vanished as the most unusual cloud hovered over you. That's when you heard God's voice speak directly to you. “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him."
Instinctively, you fall to the ground. You perceived the holiness and goodness of God, and at the same time, your total unworthiness to be in His Presence. You had been with Jesus for so long, witnessing so many miracles, yet this was a pivotal moment that changed you forever. God is real! God is speaking directly to you! He exists not just in scripture, but truly and powerfully alive in your life! His voice silenced any questions about who Jesus is. Jesus is the Son of God! His words and teachings must be followed! You are a disciple of the Son of God! You must strive to be more faithful than ever before!
-Susan
