Peter said to him, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what he was saying.)
Luke 9:33
Right Idea Wrong Mountain
Devotion based on Luke 9:33
See series: Devotions
There are places and people you enjoy that you want to stay forever. Maybe it is a special family vacation or coffee with a close friend that are so perfect you wish that the moment could last forever.
Peter looked up at Jesus whose face was shining brighter than lightning and who was speaking with Moses and Elijah, and Peter wanted to stay. His suggestion was to put up three shelters, one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah, so that he could stay in this moment and with this company. However, just moments later, it was all gone, and Peter walked down the mountain.
Peter had the right idea but the wrong mountain. Jesus still had bigger and better mountains to climb.
He would go to Mount Calvary, where he would give his life for our sins. He would go to the Mount of Olives, where he would ascend to heaven. He currently stands above every mountain as he rules over all things for the benefit of his people.
Jesus wanted Peter to be with him in a perfect place forever, and he wants you to be with him also. Maybe you feel like you are living a life full of mountain top moments, and you wish you could stay here forever. Maybe you are going through some of life’s deepest valleys and feel like you can’t get through them fast enough. Regardless of where you are now, Jesus promises a bigger and better mountain ahead where he will be with you forever.
Jesus did not stay on the mountain of transfiguration but went down with Peter and the other two disciples. He went to Mount Calvary and the Mount of Olives and now sits above everything where he is making a place for you to join him forever.
Prayer:
Gracious God, in good times or bad, remind me that you still have the best to come. Amen.