Matthew 17:1-9; Mark 9:2-10; Luke 9:28-36
This was a big week for these apostles. First Peter was given the keys of the kingdom. Six days later the first presidency of the church, Peter, James, and John, were taken up the mountain to witness the transfiguration of Jesus. Here they received important endowments of knowledge that they would need after the crucification, resurrection, and ascension of Christ.
The sequence of events upon the mt. of Transfiguration included:
1. Jesus physically changed as His continence shone like the sun. Also His clothing became shining white.
2. Moses and Elias (Elijah or possibly John the Baptist) appeared. Elias is the Greek form of the name Elijah, but can also be interpreted as forerunner or preparer. John the Baptist was the forerunner of Jesus.
3. A bright cloud which hid the physical body of God, the Father, overshadowed them. They heard the voice of God from the cloud telling them to listen to Jesus, His Son.
"Perhaps Jesus felt not only a sense of the heavenly cam which that solitary opportunity for communion with His Father would bring, but even more, a sense that H would be supported in the coming hour by ministrations not of this earth...As He prayed to His Father, He was elevated far above the doubt and wickedness of the world which had rejected Him...He took His three apostles with Him in the belief that they, after having seen His glory...might be fortified, that their faith might be strengthened to prepare them for the insults and humiliating events which were to follow...The three chosen apostles were taught of the Savior's coming death and also His resurrection, teachings that would strengthen each of them in the eventful days ahead." David B. Height, Ensign, May 1977, 7-9
Likening this to my life, I should follow Jesus' example of praying for strength. I will be fortified as Peter, James, and John to withstand the wickedness of this world. My testimony of Jesus, my Savior, and His doctrines will give me even greater strength in the eventful days ahead.
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Reading the scriptures and keeping this journal are my delight. I do not keep an online journal to preach to anyone but myself. I like this format, because I can add pictures and correct my writing easier. If you enjoy reading it, I am happy. If you feel offended, please, realize it is not my intention to offend but to teach myself. No negative comments will not be published.