Mountains

Read It: Matthew 17:1-8 (NRSV)

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. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” 8 And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. 

Learn It:

Take a look also at these readings from today's lectionary readings: Exodus 24:12-18 and Psalm 99.  They are both about Moses going up to the mountain to talk with God.  There are many things that happen that are important when God's people go up to a mountain.  Moses received the 10 Commandments, Jesus is transfigured in front of the disciples, Jesus teaches and preaches from the tops of  mountains like when he tells us about the Beatitudes.  Jesus is also at the top of a mountain when he ascends into heaven after his resurrection.  The tops of mountains are special places for God's people.

Share It:

Because of these wonderful and profound experiences that God's people and God's own son have experienced on the tops of mountains people today call special spiritual moments "mountaintop experiences".  Have you ever been somewhere or done something that was a mountaintop experience?  Share with each other what the event was about what was so special about it.  In what ways was it life-transforming?  How did it touch you and why do you remember it so well?

Live It:

Plan to attend a Bible study or retreat either through the church or through an organization.  Many times you will find that mountaintop experiences happen when you are away from your usual elements and are taking some time to spend intentionally with God.  See how taking some intentional time with God can be a way to open yourself to experience more mountaintop experiences.

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Please post comments with your experience with the share it or live it part of this weeks post.  Let others know if you and your family found this useful.