What a wonderful blessing this past Sunday to celebrate 15 years of ministry among us on the part of Michael and Mary Jane Turner! We are all so thankful for Michael’s heart for the gospel and for excellence in the praise of God, and it was great to be able to celebrate with them and show our appreciation for this precious couple. Thank you, Michael and Mary Jane!!

This week in our study of Mark, we will examine one of the deepest passages in the Bible, as we look at the Transfiguration of Jesus. Like the cloud on the mountain, this event is often shrouded in mystery. While there is an element of mystery to it – after all, God’s ways are higher than our ways and his thoughts are higher than our thoughts – it is meant to be understood.

So as you prepare to dig into Mark 9:1-13, think about the following:

• How is the Transfiguration linked to Peter’s confession in 8:29, and Jesus’ statement about his messiahship and our discipleship in 8:31-38 ?
• Jesus has just told his disciples that he would suffer and die. How is the event of the Transfiguration an encouragement to them?
• At the baptism of Jesus we hear the Father say, “This is my beloved Son.” Now we hear those words again, but who is the Father speaking to when he adds, “Listen to him?”

Let’s prepare our hearts to listen to the voice of God’s Spirit this Sunday. Lord willing, I will see you then as we study Mark 9:1-13 and talk about “The Transfiguration.”

See you this Sunday!

Dr. Thurman Hayes, Jr.