July 29, Matthew 17
From Simon Peter’s journal…
There’s not been much time for fishing lately, and I was glad when Jesus told me to go down to the water and catch a fish. I needed some time to think.
That thing that happened while James, John and I were up on the mountain with Jesus really affected me. All that light! I saw Moses and Elijah, standing there talking to Jesus. It was just so, so… holy. I couldn’t help blurting out that idea about making booths for them. The words weren’t out of my mouth before the cloud came and the voice spoke. We were terrified, but we understood the words: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” Nobody had to ask whose voice that was. I remember Jesus’ hand touching me, telling me it was safe to get up, that I didn’t have to be afraid. Moses and Elijah were gone when we looked up. He told us not to tell about it yet. I know I’ll never forget it.
It’s still hard to understand everything Jesus is telling us. We’re learning, though. Now we know John Baptist was “Elijah” the prophet was talking about. Now he has come, and everything is ready for Messiah’s kingdom. But Jesus is still talking about dying! I believe he’s the one, but I don’t see how that fits.
My brother Andrew and the others were having some trouble when we came down. A stubborn demon was torturing a young fellow who had been brought by his father. Jesus rebuked the
demon, the demon left and the boy was better—just like that! Jesus said they failed because of a lack of faith, and we could move mountains and nothing would be impossible with faith. It was pretty obvious to us all that we’re not there yet.
When we got back in town, the tax collector questioned me about whether or not we were going to pay our taxes. He may have been looking for an excuse to accuse Jesus. I told him we were going to pay it. When I got back to the house, Jesus knew before I told him what had happened. He sent me down here to fish, and said I would find a fish with a coin in its mouth. Of course, it turned out just like he said.
I don’t know if I’ll tell them where this shekel came from when I get to the tax office or not. I’m pretty sure they wouldn’t believe me if I did tell them. I just know he’s in control of every situation, and he knows everything before we say it or before it even happens. Some of what he’s saying scares me, but I trust him.
From The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide
for Your Journey Through the New Testament,
Copyright © 2010 by Michael B. McElroy. Used
by permission. All rights reserved.
Today in God's Word—July 2024
East Tallassee Church of Christ
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