TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

5 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.” 6 (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.) 7 Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”

Mark 9:5–7

DEVOTIONAL

by Stephanie Reloj

Let’s be honest: our phones are constantly buzzing with notifications—texts, social media updates, news alerts, and more. Important messages from loved ones get lost in the noise. Realizing this, we can silence the unnecessary alerts and prioritize those from our family. Similarly, our lives are filled with competing voices and distractions. We need to focus on Jesus’ voice above all others.

Going back to our passage, Peter’s suggestion, though well-meaning, reflects a misunderstanding. Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, are not equal to Jesus. Before Peter can continue, a cloud descends and envelops them. From the cloud, the voice of the Father interrupts: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!” (Matthew 17:5). When the cloud lifts, Moses and Elijah are gone, leaving only Jesus.

This moment holds deep significance. The Father’s voice affirms Jesus as His beloved Son, making it clear that Jesus is the ultimate authority, above even the greatest figures of Jewish history. The command to “listen to him” underscores that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The presence of Moses and Elijah was temporary; their purpose was to point to Jesus. Now, with them gone, Jesus alone remains the focal point of our faith.

For the disciples, this affirmation was a powerful reminder to focus on Jesus and listen to His words above all else. For us, it serves as a call to recognize Christ’s unique authority and divinity. In a world with many voices and influences, we are reminded to prioritize listening to Jesus, who is God’s beloved Son.

 

PRAYER