In this event, these disciples see Jesus in his full, heaven-kissed glory. We hear echoes of the words spoken at his baptism, but there is also the admonition to “listen to him.” Some of what Jesus would have to say was hard to hear.
He would speak of his betrayal and death. He would speak of this counter-cultural kingdom where humility, vulnerability, compassion, mercy, and justice were the ideals. He would teach them about forgiveness, about engaging with a hurting world rather than hiding or ignoring or running from it. He would teach them about going the extra mile and turning the other cheek.
Which of Jesus’ teachings or commandments do you have a hard time hearing? In prayer, ask for an open heart, ready to listen to Jesus.
