New? February 8 Devotional
February 08, 2025
MATTHEW 17:1-3 | 1 Six days later, Jesus took with him
Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. 3 Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him.
The detail about the other witnesses to the Transfiguration is also compelling. Moses is the great lawgiver and leader. Elijah the greatest of the prophets. Together they represent the heights of the Torah, with its special covenant, in which Yahweh bound himself to Israel and the spirit-filled prophetic inspiration which guided and corrected the nation. Jesus’ life and ministry, moving in humility toward sacrifice, was seen by many as a contradiction to their expectations for God’s Messiah. But here Moses and Elijah lend their validation for his path and purpose. He fulfills the heart of the law and the prophets’ great hopes, initiating a new Kingdom of forgiveness and divine intimacy that nothing can destroy. For Peter, James, and John the company was as awesome as the voice and the glory.
What Old Testament figures to you admire and respect?
Gracious God,
Thank you that the Transfiguration was not just an unusual religious experience, but a fulfillment of your will and work in the story of Israel.
Amen.
