Matthew 17:6-8 (RSV)

When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.

The first half of the 17th chapter of Matthew tells of what is called The Transfiguration. Six days after the events described at the conclusion of Chapter 16, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a mountain to be apart. There Jesus became all white and bright, as if He was His own light or sun. 

Not only did Jesus’ appearance change dramatically, but Peter, James and John then saw Moses and Elijah join Jesus and speak with Him. Peter offered praise and started brainstorming ways to memorialize the occasion and the three presences before him. He offered to build three tabernacles, or tents, right then and there!  

A bright cloud overcame them and spoke, frightening and filling Peter, James and John with awe. They were so shocked, they fell face down on the ground, covering and possibly even closing their eyes tightly. This response did not earn them more bright lights or loud voices from clouds, but instead a softer, gentler move. Jesus went to them. He touched them. And He gave them two commands: (1) “Rise”, and (2) “Don’t be afraid.” Following those instructions, they looked up to see Jesus and Jesus only. 

After all the disciples had experienced with Jesus already, I wonder how Peter, James and John felt being selected to accompany Jesus up a high mountain. What exhilarating happenings awaited them up there? They got up there and were not disappointed. Jesus was transfigured before them, and they received a special visit from Moses and Elijah. Peter got all excited to the point of babbling. While Peter was still speaking, the cloud came up to set things back on track.

I love that there is specific mention that Jesus touched them. He went to them and touched them. Jesus is always there and connected and personal with us. We can have some amazing, awe-inspiring, even terrifying “mountain top” experiences where we see God’s glory in a blazing light, but in the aftermath, Jesus is still with us, a concerned and comforting presence, willing to guide us.

Jesus’ two commands: (1) “Rise” and (2) “Do not fear” appear a lot throughout Scripture, sometimes apart and sometimes together. Most translations of Matthew 16:7 put them in that specific order, too: Rise, then don’t be afraid. Faith will lift us up, and that action, as well as what we see there, will help fear melt away. 

When Peter, James and John looked up, all they saw was Jesus. No bright lights, no booming clouds, no Moses or Elijah or anyone else, major or minor. Just Jesus. Jesus was the focal point for going up the mountain, having an amazing experience up there, and then to help bring them back down.

Through all the ups and downs of our lives, Jesus is with us.

Dear Lord, Thank You for always being with us. Thank You for when we have the opportunity to see Your presence in amazing ways. Help us to move in faith and have no fear as we seek to walk closer and closer with You. In Christ’s name I pray, Amen.