When you need a little encouragement who do you go to?

When the road is hard and you’re tempted to turn back, what do you do to help you stay the course? The passage (Lk.9:28-36; Mt. 17:1-8; Mk. 9:2-8) of Jesus transfiguration has often confused many as to its meaning and purpose.
I would like to suggest to you, that in these passages you find direction for finding the right encouragement, advice and commitment to stay the course and continue on with the Lord with absolute resolution.

First notice the setting: Coming off a week full of miracles, ministry with Jesus and a mind blowing announcement from Jesus, Jesus took three of His closest companions aside for a time of rest and prayer. When we are feeling drained, we better find the place and time to get alone with Jesus.

Second, notice who shows up: Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the prophets), The two together representing God’s Word and Jesus fulfillment of the law and prophets. We need to be refreshed by the security, accuracy and fulfilled promises of God’s Word (we need to be reminded God is who He says He is and does what He says He will do and scripture is His resume.) But also notice what they were there to do. They were talking with Jesus about His departure. Sometimes we need to gather around us faithful, mature, Christian friends who have walked before us and allow them to encourage us as these two did with Jesus. In addition, the presence of these two saints and the voice of the Father certainly resolved any doubts or fears that may have begun to creep into the disciples’ hearts and minds as well.

Finally notice these times of settling our spirit, encouraging our faith and becoming refreshed are not places we stay, but time and places we go to.

We have to take what we get there and leave there to use it, to go on, move on continue the work. Jesus led the disciples up the mountain just as He did back down and back to work.

Next time you need a little encouragement, use the model of the mount of transfiguration to help you out. “About eight days after Jesus said this, he took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray.” (Lk 9:28)

Dr. William Burnham is pastor of Point of Grace Church in Covington. He can be reached at burnhamw@charter.net.