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My upbringing did not include telling my parents no. Of course, I tested those waters as I got a little more brave--I thought I was brave. Many of you, I am sure, share that kind of experience.
Now, imagine telling God 'no'. That's exactly what Peter did.
Peter prayed one day. He kept at his praying long enough to get hungry. Can you imagine that? As he waited for his food, he had a vision. A vision that confused him. It actually seemed to rattle him quite a bit. And it wasn't like one of those dreams you wake up from and move on. No, he kept thinking about it even some time after it was over.
You may know the rest of the story. First, Peter stood convinced God's love and power had its limits. That the Spirit's gifts were for a selected group of people. Peter's vision, and a few corresponding events, taught him something new about Jesus' mission. Of course, it was nothing new at all. Jesus had been pointing to it over the course of his ministry. But in one great moment Peter would declare, "I truly understand that God shows no partiality" (Acts 10:34).
But before he gets to that point, he has some wrestling to do. Wrestling with God and with himself. It was his original understanding that persuaded him to tell God 'no.' Surely God wouldn't ask him to do something that went against what he believed.
But a faith that never challenges us never changes us. When we tell God 'no' we set ourselves up to remain where we are. Yes, that might be the comfortable spot to us. But God calls us to a higher and deeper calling. Changing our 'no' to 'yes' might vex us. Eventually, though, it will bless us.
Finish your story by telling God 'yes.'
Stay blessed...john
Monday: The Importance of Prayer
Devotional:
The transfiguration of Jesus was a significant event, but it began with a simple act of prayer. Jesus didn't ascend the mountain for a spectacle; he went up to pray. Before the glory and the miraculous, there was a moment of deep communion with God. Prayer is both a source of comfort and power, a means for transformation. Reflect on the role of prayer in your life: Is it just a ritual, or is it the foundation of your relationship with God?
Reflection Questions:
- How often do you seek God in prayer before major decisions or events?
- Can you recall a time when prayer led to a significant change or insight in your life?
- What practical steps can you take to prioritize prayer in your daily routine?
Additional Scripture:
- Luke 9:28-29
- Philippians 4:6-7
Tuesday: Revival Through Prayer
Devotional:
Revival without prayer is like a fire without fuel. We can desire transformation and renewal, but it must be rooted in a deep commitment to prayer. Jesus' transfiguration teaches us that true revival happens when we seek God earnestly. As a community of believers, when we unite in prayer, we invite God's presence and power into our midst.
Reflection Questions:
- What does revival mean to you, personally or as a community?
- Why is prayer a crucial component of spiritual revival?
- How can you encourage collective prayer within your church or small group?
Additional Scripture:
- 2 Chronicles 7:14
- Acts 2:42-47
Wednesday: Listening to God's Voice
Devotional:
During the transfiguration, the voice of God confirmed Jesus’ identity: "This is my Son, the chosen. Listen to him." Listening to God requires more than hearing; it involves obedience and action. As followers of Christ, we are called to listen and align our lives with his teachings. Consider how you discern God’s voice amidst the noise of daily life.
Reflection Questions:
- What are some barriers that prevent you from listening to God?
- How can you create space in your life to hear from God more clearly?
- In what ways can you act on what you hear from God?
Additional Scripture:
- Matthew 17:5
- James 1:22-25
Thursday: Transformation Through Obedience
Devotional:
The transfiguration story highlights a pivotal moment for Jesus and his disciples. It was not just about witnessing a miracle but about understanding and following Jesus' mission. Our transformation comes through obedience to his call — to act in love, seek justice, and walk in humility. True transformation is evidenced by a life that visibly reflects Christ’s teachings.
Reflection Questions:
- How has your faith transformed your actions and relationships?
- What areas of your life need alignment with Christ’s teachings?
- How does obedience to God’s word bring about personal and communal transformation?
Additional Scripture:
- Romans 12:1-2
- Micah 6:8
Friday: Baptism and Community Commitment
Devotional:
Baptism is a sacred vow (sacrament) not only for the individual but for the community. It symbolizes our collective responsibility to support and nurture each other’s faith journey. As a church, our commitment goes beyond the act; it is a promise to stand alongside one another, reminding us of our own baptism and calling in Christ.
Reflection Questions:
- How does your community of faith support spiritual growth and accountability?
- What role do you play in nurturing others’ faith journeys?
- How does remembering your own baptism encourage you in your walk with Christ?
Additional Scripture:
Ephesians 4:1-6
Galatians 3:26-28
This Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday.
Here's a line I probably took out of my sermon: Christians often pay a lot of money for mountain-top experiences.
I say probably because, who knows? Maybe I'll decide it needs to be said.
Stay blessed...john
