- Matthew 17:1-8 - And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.
- Psalm 145:18 - The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.
When you fall, Jesus is right there to pick you up. Have you ever noticed that the more time you spend with someone, the better you understand their thoughts and the reasons behind their actions? Our relationship with Jesus is similar. When we have a close relationship with Him, we are not praying to some distant, cold, and inaccessible deity. On the contrary, we are addressing a God who is near (Psalm 145:18) — a God who loves us, protects us, and transforms us into His image. This changes how we approach Him, doesn't it? In today's event, Peter, James, and John witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus and were terrified. Their reaction is understandable, as they were seeing divine glory with human eyes. Yet, even in that astonishing moment, Jesus did not leave them where they had fallen. Instead, He came to the three disciples, touched them, and said, "Arise, and do not be afraid" (verse 7). We serve exactly such a merciful and personal God. He meets us even when we are in awe and fear, and compassionately lifts us up. It is helpful to remember this image when you set aside time for the Lord. If you find it difficult to build a close relationship with God, remember: He loves you, He forgives you, and He delights in your prayers.
Reflection
In what area of your life do you feel fear or confusion today? Can you imagine Jesus touching you and saying, 'Arise, do not be afraid'?
