By Andrew Williams
“But even as he spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.’ The disciples were terrified and fell face down on the ground. Then Jesus came over and touched them. ‘Get up,’ he said. ‘Don’t be afraid.’ And when they looked up, Moses and Elijah were gone, and they saw only Jesus.” – Matthew 17:5-8 (NLT)
Good morning fellow disciples.
In this climactic moment of the Transfiguration, the voice of God Himself speaks from a bright cloud, affirming Jesus as His “dearly loved Son” who brings Him great joy. God’s command is simple yet profound: “Listen to him.” This divine declaration confirms Jesus’ unique authority, distinguishing Him even above Moses and Elijah, who represented the Law and the Prophets. God is redirecting the disciples’ focus entirely to Jesus as the ultimate revelation of His will.
The disciples, overwhelmed by God’s glory and power, fall to the ground in fear. But Jesus, in His tender compassion, comes to them, touches them, and reassures them: “Get up. Don’t be afraid.” When they lift their eyes, Moses and Elijah have disappeared, leaving only Jesus. This moment reminds us that Jesus alone is the One we are called to follow, worship, and obey.
This passage teaches us that discipleship requires not just seeing Jesus’ glory but actively listening to Him. The voice of God redirects our focus from distractions, fears, and competing voices to the One who is the ultimate source of life and truth.
The Father’s command to “Listen to him” empowers us to evaluate whose voice we are prioritizing in our daily lives. In a noisy world full of competing opinions, distractions, and fears, this passage reminds us to redirect our focus back to Jesus. He is the beloved Son, the one who brings joy to the Father, and the voice we need to hear above all others.
The disciples’ fear is also something we can relate to. When we encounter God’s presence or face challenges in life, it can be overwhelming. But Jesus’ gentle touch and words—“Get up. Don’t be afraid”—remind us of His love and reassurance. He invites us to move forward with courage, knowing that He is with us. When we look up and see only Jesus, we find the clarity and peace we need to follow Him faithfully.
Today, take time to reflect on the voices that influence your thoughts and decisions. Are you listening to the noise of the world, your own fears, or the voice of Jesus? Redirect your focus by intentionally silencing distractions and spending time in His Word, listening to what He is saying to you. Meditate on a passage of Scripture, asking the Holy Spirit to help you hear Jesus clearly. Commit to obeying what He reveals to you, trusting that His words bring life and truth.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing Your love for Jesus and calling me to listen to Him. I confess that I am often distracted by other voices—my own fears, the noise of the world, or my doubts. Help me to redirect my focus to Jesus, Your beloved Son, who brings You great joy. Teach me to listen to Him, to trust His words, and to follow His leading in my life. When I feel afraid or overwhelmed, remind me of His gentle touch and His command to rise and not be afraid. I commit to keeping my eyes on Jesus, trusting Him above all. In His name, I pray, Amen.