What did you do the past week?

In this final Sunday after Epiphany, we hear the gospel passage from Luke that occurs eight days after Peter first said out loud that Jesus was the Messiah. In the passages between Peter’s declaration and this Sunday’s gospel about the Transfiguration, Jesus told the disciples to not reveal to anybody else what Peter had figured out because Jesus will soon suffer and be rejected, then be put to death, but three days later be raised to life. He then challenged them all, “If anyone wants to come with me he must forget himself, take up his cross every day, and follow me.” 

What went through the minds of the disciples during the following week? What was their level of doubt and frustration as they processed this secret? Did they openly discuss with each other their fears and anxiety about the future? And what were their thoughts by the end of their week, after Peter, John and James witness the transfiguration of Jesus, as Moses and Elijah incredibly appear to talk with Jesus who is wearing dazzling white clothing. 

O God our King, redeem all our days by the victory of Jesus over those who rejected him to exercise their earthly powers. Forgive our sins, banish our fears, make us bold to praise you and to do your will every day. *

*Inspired by “Prayers and Thanksgivings: Other Prayers On Sunday,” The Book of Common Prayer, Page 835.

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