November 24, 2019: SOAP #3643:  Matthew 17-19

Scripture:  Matthew (NIV) 17:1 After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves.

Observation:  The ministry of Jesus took many forms from teaching and feeding the 5000+ to sitting at a well, asking and answering questions from a single woman.  In this passage Jesus takes just three of the twelve disciples “up a high mountain by themselves.”

It took some effort to go with Jesus, but it was worth it.  The place did not have a well-traveled path.  One translation says it was a solitary place.

“Jesus took” them with him.  It was a place where Jesus could be alone with them.  It was important to Him to have time alone with them.

They followed His leading.  It was a place where they could be alone with Jesus.

Application:  Sometimes Jesus leads us to places away from the crowd.  He may lead to a place where only a few can go with us.  We should follow Him, even though the path may be difficult.  It is worth the climb to be alone with Jesus!  It is worth the struggle getting through death’s door; we will be with Him!!!  We shall see Him as He IS!

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, with the guidance of your ever-present Holy Spirit, I want to climb higher.  Seeing Jesus as He is makes the struggle worthwhile.   Amen
Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!