Scripture
“This is my Son, my Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven, while we were with him on the holy mountain. (2 Peter 1:17b-18)
Reflection
Whether it was the Apostle Peter himself or one of his admirers writing in his name (an accepted practice at the time), we have in this text the passing down of an eyewitness account of Jesus’ Transfiguration (see Friday’s Reflection).
I often wonder what event “nailed down” Peter’s eventual lifelong devotion to Jesus, to that point that it led to his own death (according to tradition crucified upside down). Was it Jesus’ initial call, when Peter was fishing with his brother? Was it Jesus’ compelling teaching? Was it Jesus inviting Peter to come to him, walking on water? Was it the other-worldly event of the Transfiguration? Despite all of these amazing encounters, we know that Peter denied Jesus three times after Jesus’ arrest. It finally took Jesus’ appearance to Peter after the resurrection, and the three-fold question, “Peter, do you love me?” (John 21).
What does it take for us to believe? Peter’s dramatic transformation from a fickle follower to a zealous proclaimer, from a coward to one willing to die, might give us all pause to take his word seriously.
Prayer
Gracious God, Thank you for the witness of your servant Peter. May his bold proclamation embolden us to believe. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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