... and the beginning of the end

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Another Affirmation – “This is my son whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” (Matthew 17:5) This was another audible voice from heaven. The first was at Jesus’ baptism before his ministry began. Now, at the Transfiguration, 3 of Jesus’ closest disciples are present and the encouragement is for all of them.

Another Metaphor – “I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25) One of seven famous “I am” statements, this one took place at the time that Lazarus had died. Before Jesus raised him back to life, he gave these words of encouragement to bolster faith and teach a lasting truth.

The Third Turning Point – “From that day on they plotted to take his life.” (John 11:53) Ironically this transition came soon after Lazarus was raised from the dead. The people that took issue with Jesus were so stuck in their opposition that not even miracles could change their mind.

A Tenderness – “Let the children come to me.” (Mark 10:14) Jesus was so mindful of others that he was able to welcome children even at a time when people wanted to take his life. This tenderness also stood in contrast to the disciples themselves who rebuked the parents for taking up Jesus’ time.

A “Triumph” – Jesus arrived in Jerusalem to a throng of well-wishers. (Mark 11:9) He was heading to the cross to set up a spiritual kingdom for all people of all time, but they were only able to focus on their immediate need and desire for a king. The “triumph” was not understood in the same way.

A Tension – Jesus cleansed the temple courts when he saw money changers and people selling doves. (Matthew 21:12-13) Rather than making it a house of prayer, they were making it a “den of robbers.” Clearly, he had heavenly objectives, and nothing was going to stand in his way.

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