The Transfiguration
The Gospel for this coming Sunday (The Transfiguration of Our Lord) is Luke 9:28-36.
This event takes place just as Jesus was about to go into Jerusalem to suffer, die and rise. He will finish what had been promised.
Peter, James and John were with him. They were also present when Jairus’s daughter was raised. They were recognized as leaders among the Twelve.
Jesus frequently took time out to pray. This was especially true of the time preceding major events in his life. The Lord’s purpose was to enter into intimate communion with His heavenly Father, for the purpose of getting wisdom and strength for His up-coming difficult work.
The men that were with Jesus were Moses and Elijah. Moses represents the Law and Elijah the prophets. This embraces the entire OT in its testimony to the passion and resurrection of Jesus. The topic of their conversation was Jesus carrying out his suffering, death and resurrection.
Here Peter speaks up. He suggests that three temporary structures be built so that they could stay there a bit longer. These structures were used in the OT celebrations to stay in tents and meditate on the message of the event. But in this case the idea was not appropriate because Jesus had work to do in the coming days.
When the cloud left the Father speaks. He says that Jesus is his “chosen one.” The disciples and we need to listen to him.
Prayer: “ ’Tis good, Lord, to be here! Yet we may not remain; But since Thou bidst us leave the mount, Come with us to the plain.” Amen. (LSB 414:5) (TLSB).