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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

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.” (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.) 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

Read: Mark 9:1–13

Listen: Mark 9

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Jesus and a few of his disciples went up on a mountain. But this was not an ordinary mountain hike. Jesus turns a dazzling white as two significant men who represent the Law and the Prophets appear. Then a cloud surrounds them. What a way for God to get their attention! God did this because he wanted them to take his Son seriously by listening to him.

This story needs to get our attention too. We often desire to know what God wants from us. This story illustrates it very clearly, “Listen to Jesus.” God has certified the credentials of Jesus, and he deserves our attention. We ought to listen to him.

These are great words for us to remember. When our culture tries to define the expectations of our faith, “Listen to him.” When we find ourselves grasping for power and influence instead of humble service, “Listen to him.” When our conscience won’t let us believe that we are saved through Christ’s death and resurrection, “Listen to him.” When we are tempted to be disloyal theologically or morally, “Listen to him.” When following him gets tough, it costs something and we feel like we’re losing, “Listen to him.” Let us fill our hearts and minds with the things of our Lord as we listen to him.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Spend some time today just listening to Jesus. Read through the passage a few times slowly and listen to what Jesus is teaching. Remember to write down the main idea from the passage and how you should respond on page 76 of your journal.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.