SCRIPTURE:
“Peter said to Jesus, ‘Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters - one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.) Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: ‘This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!’ Suddenly, when they looked around, they no longer saw anyone with them except Jesus.”
Mark 9:5-8
OBSERVATION:
Peter on seeing Jesus transfigured in His divine glory with Moses and Elijah, mistakenly equated Moses and Elijah in holiness with Jesus by suggesting three equal shelters (a holy dwelling). Thus, Peter equated Moses and Elijah with Jesus based on presence. Although they were in the presence of Jesus in His transfiguration, they were not equal to His holiness and glory.
APPLICATION:
These scriptures speak to me in a unique way in how we sometimes equate and elevate wonderful pastors and speakers to the level of Jesus in putting them up on a pedestal with our eyes fixed on them rather than Jesus. They can be great pastors, speakers, and leaders, but should never take the place of Jesus in who we follow and focus our eyes on. It is an important discernment; less we fall apart if they fall or let us down, and become enamored with what they say and do rather than what Jesus speaks to our hearts through the Bible. The caution and discernment is to be thankful for our Pastors and leaders’ leadership, shepherding, and love; but keep our eyes, heart, devotion, actions, and service to Jesus in His power and name. How? Through His Word.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord Jesus, I will keep my eyes, heart, and devotion fixed on you, the author and perfector of my faith. Guide me please never to look at man no matter how successful, how eloquent, how influential, before looking to and following you, and receiving guidance and growth through your Word rather than what man may say.
