READING: Numbers 29-31, Mark 9:1-29
“This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!”
Mark 9:7
Our willingness to listen to others is often closely linked to the position a person has in our life. I listen to my boss not only because I respect him, but also because he holds my employment in his hands. I listen to my wife because she’s my helpmate who knows me better than anybody. I listen to my mentors because I’ve watched and trust their walk with God. I listen to my pastor because he’s my pastor, and I listen to my best friend because I know he loves me and wants the best for me. On the other hand, I’m less inclined to listen to people who hold no authority or have little influence in my life.
So, when I read today’s text in Mark 9, I’m halted by these words: “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” (Mark 9:7). God had announced Jesus as His Son at His baptism (Mark 1:11), and He reminded the disciples of this truth again on the Mount of Transfiguration. Moses and Elijah, who miraculously appeared on the Mount, were instrumental in Hebrew history as representatives of the Law and the prophets, but they were only human beings. The overshadowing presence of God symbolized in the cloud made it clear that Jesus was so much more than that; He was God’s Son, the beloved One. Peter was so marked by this event that he remembered it when he wrote his own letter that would be included in the New Testament (2 Pet. 1:17-18).
Because Jesus was the Son of God, the disciples’ only proper response to Him was to listen to Him and obey Him. Indeed, the wording of Mark 9:7 calls for ongoing, continual obedience to Jesus’ words. Thus, if I understand who Jesus really is, I should choose over and over and over and over again to obey Him. Disobedience should not even be an option if I know that the words Christ gives to us come from the Son of God. It is good for me to hang out with that truth a little while, let it sink into my soul, and then make choices that please the beloved Son of God.
It is good for me to listen to Him.
ACTION STEPS:
- You cannot listen to Jesus without reading His Word. Stay faithful in your Bible reading!
- Because of who Jesus is, obey Him today.
PRAYER: “Lord, You are the beloved Son of God. I’m listening . . . so teach me.”
TOMORROW'S READING: Numbers 32-34, Mark 9:30-50