February 27th Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Transfiguration: Astounding Glory
Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah” —not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!” When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.
[Reading above -Luke 9: 28-36]
Luke explores and confirms the identity of Jesus in his 9th chapter by connecting the story of Jesus to the story of his ancestors. This identity is more than can be comprehended and articulated. The mystery of God in Christ involves suffering, death, new life, glory, and compassionate service. Maybe the most important response to Christ is quiet listening that leads to faithful action.
Questions for Reflection:
Today’s story from Luke is patterned after the story of Moses on Mt. Sinai in Exodus 24:15-18 and Exodus 34:29-35. What are the connections between Moses and Jesus?
Moses represents the commands and instructions of God and Elijah represents the prophetic message of God. How does Jesus represent and advance the commands and prophetic decrees of God?
God commands we listen to Jesus. How do you listen to Jesus? How does listening to our Leader influence our lives, home, community, and world God loves?
A Practice to Focus on Discipleship
We are using an ancient spiritual practice called Lectio Divina. This is a prayerful way of reading a scripture passage with mindfulness of Christ’s Living Spirit in the words. Try this practice with today’s scripture lesson. At the beginning of the week please slowly read through these verses a few times in an attitude of prayer. Pay attention to a word or phrase that stands out. Then apply this word or phrase to the challenges and opportunities of each day in the week. At the end of the week look back and give thanks for the way Christ has helped you live as a more faithful disciple. If you need help or guidance, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com.