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Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain… And he was transfigured before them. Mark 9:2

Jesus has announced His journey to Jerusalem, and suddenly all the talk is about dying and a cross. Peter has already objected (8:32). He likes being a disciple, but he’s not sure that he is up for this!

Likewise, you may be asking, “Why would I deny myself and take up my cross to follow Jesus? Why would I spend my life for the advance of the gospel?” Jesus shows us two reasons. Here is the first one.

We see Christ’s glory
His clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them (9:3).
The glory that is hidden in Jesus bursts out. The disciples see what you will see when He comes in power and glory.

The beauty, brightness, and purity in Christ is beyond comparison. This glory does not come upon Him, it comes from within Him. The disciples are so stunned that even Peter does not know what to say (9:6).

Then they see the cloud and hear the voice of God, just as Moses did: “This is my beloved Son; listen to him” (9:7). This glimpse of Christ’s glory made a lasting mark on their lives. John later says, “We have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father” (Jn. 1:14). Peter writes, “We were eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Pet. 1:16).

Notice that Mark says Jesus “was transfigured before them.” This happened for their benefit and, through them, for our benefit. If you are going to follow Jesus for a lifetime, you have to see His glory. If you do not see His glory, you will not follow far.

Reflect on the beauty, brightness, and purity of Christ. How could this glimpse of His glory help you follow Him with greater commitment?