They saw the glory. All lights were on Jesus . . . and in Jesus . . . and shining out from Jesus. And they saw with Him Moses and Elijah, the embodiment of the law and the prophets. And while Jesus and “his departure” were intended to be the center of attention, while preparing for a once in eternity event that would provide eternal redemption big enough for all creation for all time, Peter (as Peter was wont to do) couldn’t help but think about what he should do.

“Master, it’s good for us to be here. Let’s set up three shelters: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”

(Luke 9:33 CSB)

Really? The Son of God, the Law of God, and the Prophets of God gathered to finalize details about the way of redemption of God, and Peter, the fishermen, says, “Hey, I got an idea . . . Let me and my friends do something.” Yeah, really.

Thus, the voice of God descends from heaven and . . . shushes Peter.

While he was saying this, a cloud appeared and overshadowed them. They became afraid as they entered the cloud. Then a voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is My Son, the Chosen One; listen to Him!”

(Luke 9:34-35 CSB)

Not slamming Peter. Identifying with him. And trying to learn from him.

If you’ve been around the kingdom of heaven for any period of time, kingdom speak has a way of becoming just commonplace language. If you’ve read and heard the teachings of Jesus over and over through the years, then the teachings of Jesus might land more as life-living old news rather than life-giving good news. Even when kingdom speak is still exhilarating and Jesus’ teaching is still invigorating, there can be the inclination to first think, like Peter thought, “How’s it about me? What do I need to do?”

But perhaps we might be mindful that many times the best thing we can do with the familiar speaking and the well known teaching is just to listen.

Listen! Attend to. Consider. Perceive what’s being said. Process it like it’s the first time you’ve heard it. Ask the Spirit to show you what to pick up from what’s being laid down. Listen. Listen to Him.

Shush! Be still. Expect attentive, receptive repose to precede active, self-empowered response. Think Mary before Martha (Lk. 10:38-42).

Listen to Him. This is My Son speaking. Listen to Him.

Word of God speak.

By Your grace. For my good. For Your glory.