2 Peter 1:16-21… “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty.” vs. 16
As Peter reflected on his life as a disciple, he wanted people to know that he “hadn’t just made this stuff up,” when he’d shared the good news of the Lord Jesus. He’d actually been there on the mountain and seen the transfiguration, the great Epiphany, and after the resurrection of Jesus, he’d traveled with the gospel all the way to Rome. Peter’s words are a good reminder for us as we deal with the myriads of new religions and philosophies that are now popping up all over the world. Some of them sound so good, and because they’ve been crafted with attention to the latest pseudoscience, they seem to bear a contemporary stamp of authenticity. But just because the perpetrators of this nonsense have their own beautifully choreographed podcasts and television shows doesn’t make their message true.
Authentic faith has its roots in the life and teachings of Jesus with no embellishments, and it always focuses on the cross and that world-changing message of sacrificial love and forgiveness. Jesus’ ministry began with the words of affirmation he’d received through the Spirit in his baptism. When Peter heard those same words on the mountaintop, he never forgot them. And really that’s all we need to remember too! We are the beloved children of God, sent to love and serve in a broken world. Amen!
Thought for the Day: What one event has shaped my faith?
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