Mark 9:1-13

A blinding light
Mark 9:1-13

Only recently, Peter recognized that Jesus was the Messiah that the people were looking for.  Now that Peter and the other disciples knew for sure, Jesus took on the task of preparing them for what was to come — Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Jesus started discussing His death, resurrection, and the glory of heaven with the disciples so they wouldn’t miss it when the actual events occurred.  Some of His disciples would be writing about these happenings and all of them would be telling others — Jesus wanted them to get it straight.

As Jesus and the disciples headed to Mt. Hermon (or Mt. Tabor), He mentioned that some of the disciples would see heaven before they died.  Was Jesus talking about the ‘end times’ that were prophesied in the Old Testament?  Well, no, not in this case.  Jesus needed to connect with His heavenly father and six days later, Jesus took Peter, James & John to the top of the mountain and suddenly heaven surrounded them.  Jesus became blindingly white with energy.   Moses and Elijah were right there with them.  The Gospel of Luke tells us that Moses, Elijah and Jesus were discussing ‘the plan’ about Jesus’ upcoming crucifixion then resurrection.

Frightened to death and right in the middle of it all, Peter exclaimed ‘let’s build three tabernacles (churches) here,’ implying that the three Holy people might reside on that mountain as God resided in the temple at Jerusalem.  Not wanting Peter to miss the uniqueness of all this, God exclaimed ‘This is my son, you listen to Him;’ and with that statement Moses, Elijah, and heaven disappeared leaving Jesus there all alone.  Peter’s desire to build three churches had also implied that Moses, Elijah and Jesus were of equal status in heaven.  God wanted to make it clear that Jesus stood alone as the top guy.

On the way back, the three disciples had some questions like ‘what does being raised from the dead mean?’ for Jesus had just mentioned it, and ‘I thought Elijah was supposed to come before you Jesus; did we miss him?’  Jesus would answer the first question later, but for now, he answered the second.  Jesus said ‘Elijah did come, and the rulers abused him just as it was written.  They will also abuse the Son of Man (Jesus).’  Elijah had come and his name was John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus.

Can you imagine being caught up in heaven like Peter, James and John were?  What a wonderful place that must be!  I’m glad Jesus went through with His plan so I can see heaven some day.  Praise God!