«Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need» (Hebrews 4:16).
There’s a part of the transfiguration story I had never noticed before. The Bible says that Peter, James, and John climbed a mountain—probably Mount Hermon—and there they saw Jesus transfigured and resplendent with unspeakable glory. Moses who had died about 1,400 years earlier, and Elijah who had died 900 years earlier, also appeared and talked with Jesus. Since we have read this story so many times, it’s not surprising to us; however, for the disciples, this was an absolutely terrifying spectacle! Stunned, Peter suggested they build three tabernacles. The Bible says that he said this «because he did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid» (Mark 9:6).
The really amazing thing about this story is how God used this event to reveal His love. The Father sent His Son to eradicate our fears and break down the barriers that separated us from Him. Death was defeated through Jesus’s sacrifice. Through Jesus’s merits, we can look at God face to face. We are free from all fear and condemnation! As Paul wrote, we can “boldly” approach our God’s throne of grace. There we will receive His mercy and find the grace that will help us when we need it most (see Hebrews 4:16).
Boldly! We can approach God not only without fear, but also boldly, as one who enters a friend’s house without knocking. How wonderful! I had always imagined this story as something glorious, not terrifying. However, the story continues with the theme of fear. As soon as Peter suggested building the tabernacles, «a cloud came and overshadowed them; and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!’ » (Mark 9:7). For a Jew of that time, seeing the cloud of God’s glory cover a mountain and hearing His voice was something equivalent to a death sentence. When Moses went up to Mount Sinai and the glory of God covered the mountain, the Israelites couldn’t approach or touch it (see Exodus All those who went past the limits set on the mountain had to die. Imagine what Peter, James, and John must have thought as they heard God’s voice on that mountain!
Dear Lord, thank You for Your sacrifice.
Thank You for removing my fear and breaking down all the barriers that separated us.
Thank You because I can approach You boldly.
#WomensDevotional
#RadioJovenAdventista
#MeditacionesDiarias
Take From: Devotional Thoughts for Women 2022
«NO FEARS»
BY: VANEZA PISSUTO
Collaborators: Alexandra Perez & Angelica Cuate
