5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” – Matthew 17:5-9
Matthew’s account of the transfiguration. Jesus is seen by Peter, James, and John for exactly who he is, and they hear the voice of God making such proclamation. While they were with Jesus on this mountaintop, they got a glimpse into the true Promised Land, the place where the presence of God was pleased to dwell. Peter, like many of us, wants to stay in that place forever, he doesn’t want to leave. However, there is work to be done below, and Jesus knows it.
I’m often reminded in this passage of a sermon delivered by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 3, 1968. History tells us this is the last public address Dr. King made before he was assassinated. The end of that sermon says this:
Well, I don't know what will happen now. We've got some difficult days ahead. But it really doesn't matter with me now, because I've been to the mountaintop.
And I don't mind.
Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I'm not concerned about that now. I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land!
And so I'm happy, tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man! Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord!!
In much the same way that Jesus knew his time was coming, I feel that Dr. King knew something was coming. Many strides had been made, and many good things accomplished in the campaign for equality in those days, but there was still work to be done, and Dr. King was rallying his people to continue to work for such equality. Even today, we see the remnants of injustice and inequality rear their head in our world, but when we look to the mountaintop, and remember that there is a Promised Land on the other side, we can give praise to God, knowing that we all have an equitable share in the inheritance of our Lord’s mercy and grace. Each receives as is their need through faith.
The kingdom of God is rich with diversity, and it is something to be celebrated, as we see one another as sisters and brothers. In those mountaintop moments with Jesus, perhaps we can see that, but we know that there are plenty of spiritual valleys we must still work through. In those times, like the disciples, we must remain faithful, work for the glory of God, and look forward to the next mountaintop where we will again see the glory of God and the Promised Land of the kingdom of heaven.
Grace & Peace,
Sam