Psalm of the Day: Psalm 119:25-32
Wisdom of the Day: Job 34:14-24
Scripture Reading: Luke 9:28-36
The event described in these verses, commonly called "the transfiguration," is one of the most remarkable events in the history of our Lord's earthly ministry. It lifts a corner of the veil which hangs over the world to come, and throws light on some of the deepest truths of our faith.
This passage shows us something of the glory which Christ will have at His second coming. We read that, "As he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white!" The disciples who were with Him "saw His glory."
We need not doubt that this marvelous vision was meant to encourage and strengthen our Lord's disciples. They had just been hearing of His cross and death and the self-denial and sufferings to which they must submit themselves, if they would be saved. They were now cheered by a glimpse of the "glory that would follow," and the reward which all faithful servants of their Master would one day receive. They had seen their Master's day of weakness. They now saw, for a few minutes, a pattern and specimen of His future power and glory.
Let us take comfort in the thought, that there are good things laid up in store for all true Christians, which shall make ample amends for the afflictions of this present time. Now is the season for carrying the cross, and sharing in our Savior's humiliation. The crown, the kingdom, and the glory are all yet to come! Christ and His people are now despised, and lightly esteemed by the world. There seems no form or loveliness in Him, or in His service.
But the hour is coming, and will soon be here, when Christ shall take to Himself His great power and reign, and put down every enemy under His feet! And then the glory which was first seen for a few minutes, by three witnesses on the Mount of Transfiguration, shall be seen by all the world, and never hidden to all eternity!
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me to look forward to your appearing.
Action Plan: How do I look forward to Christ's appearing each day?
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
