FollowingJesus.me

“After six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone.” – Mark 9:2

In the previous verses, Peter has made the declaration that Jesus is the Messiah and Jesus’ follows up by once again predicting his pending death. Today’s verse segues from Jesus prediction’ to The Transfiguration, which is what happens while they are up on this mountain.

What strikes me today is Jesus’ calling aside Peter, James, and John. We see him do this on several occasions. Jesus speaks to and heals the crowds. Jesus regularly pulls aside The Twelve to explain the parables, teach, and to prepare them to continue his ministry once he is gone. He also regularly spends time with Peter, James, and John.

I am reminded of a few seasons in my life when I was part of a small group (3-4 guys) who were committed to meet regularly and encourage and support one another. It was a safe place (most of the time) to be vulnerable, to share what was really going on inside, and be prayed with and encouraged – and to listen, pray, and encourage the others. I am currently in two church small groups (10-15 people) which is great. It just isn’t the same thing.

The last season for the guys group was several years ago. Having a group that size, for that purpose, was so helpful and important in that season and I miss it.

This is something I have been thinking about off and on for a while now. I’ve sort of half-heartedly been on the lookout for 3-5 other guys who feel the same way.

Today, I feel like Jesus is reminding me that it starts with one. That instead of lamenting the loss of the previous group(s) or trying to find/gather such a group, I should look for opportunities to create that safe and encouraging atmosphere for those around me. I should focus on listening, loving, being vulnerable, and being a safe space for others to be vulnerable.

Proverbs reminds us that “A cord of three strands is not easily broken.” There is great value in having a few close associates, a band of brothers. The thing is, that doesn’t just happen. I have a role to play in creating that around me and being that for others.

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, thank you for being about community. Thank you for bringing me into God’s family. Help me to be the kind of brother that my family needs and help me to find that handful of guys with whom I can be my true self and they can too. Lord, this is your day to be lived for your glory. Live your life through me. Here we go!

Thank you, Jesus!