Mountain Top Experiences

In Luke 9:28-43 is a mountain top experience that teaches us a variety of good lessons. Here we see Jesus transfigured in what Matthew calls a vision, discussing his eventual exodus from this world. Immediately we may think of Moses' mountain top experience after Israel's exodus from slavery, where he encountered God. However, here it discusses a different mount, a hillside where Jesus would be crucified. A mountain top experience may be not only a pleasant one, but also sobering preparation for self-sacrifice. Luke also connects the mountain top experience with the lesson in the valley which follows. Unlike the exaggerated promises made by some preachers, a mountain top experience will not shelter us from reality. It will however, strengthen us to face the valleys of life. A mountain top experience can be wonderful as a preparation for the next hill of self-sacrifice and the next valley of selfless service.