Where He Leads

Where He Leads

Matthew 17:1-3, NKJV

Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; 2and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. 3And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him.

Setting the Scene

A number of mountains have been suggested for the location Jesus used as a retreat with Peter, James, and John. From the lowlands around the Sea of Galilee, “high mountains” can be seen in almost every direction. The three primary choices are Mount Tabor, Mount Hermon, and Mount Meron, with the latter being slightly favored, given its height and geographical location between Capernaum and Caesarea Philippi.

The tradition of describing positive spiritual events as “mountaintop experiences” is rooted in some of the earliest accounts of God’s dealing with people. Abraham took his son Isaac to a mountaintop. Moses encountered the burning bush somewhere on Mount Sinai. Later, he was called up that mountain to meet with God. Before Moses died, God led him up Mount Nebo, where he was able to see the Promised Land. The Psalms are filled with mountain imagery that reminds the writers of God’s presence: “I will lift up my eyes to the hills—from whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD” (Psalm 121:1-2, NKJV).

Going up the mountain alone with Jesus had to have been significant for those three disciples. We don’t know what Jesus told them beforehand, but Luke indicates that the immediate purpose was to pray (Luke 9:28). From Luke’s account, it appears the disciples got to the top of the mountain and decided it was time for a nap. The transfiguration of Jesus began as the disciples slept.

Being with Jesus requires attentiveness. Even mountaintop experiences can be missed or only partially appreciated if we are not awake enough to note what is going on.

Getting Personal

When have you “awakened” during a significant event in your life and realized that you were partly “asleep at the wheel” while God was working?

What helps you avoid lethargy in your prayer times?

There’s a time to sleep and a time to pray. Both are important, and both are gifts from God. We appreciate them most when we learn to practice them in the right ways.

Talking to God

Thank God for mountaintop experiences as well as the certainty of his presence in the valleys. Ask him to help you focus your attention so that you can give him your best in worship and obedience.