Phibsborough
Jesus is the beloved Son of the Father who hands him over for us all. He announces to us the Good News of the kingdom. His true followers and partners listen to him. Jesus ushers in the kingdom of God. He has every reason, then, to resist Satan, the power that opposes the kingdom of God and his righteousness. He does not like adversaries who would turn him away from his mission or would be obstacles to him. Rather, he wants partners.
And so, he invites the brothers Peter and Andrew and, later, James and his brother John. But as it turns out, having Peter, James and John as partners is almost like having them as adversaries at times!
The three, then, leave much to be desired still. So, Jesus has his work cut out for him in forming partners. He continues to teach them. In his transfiguration, he gives Peter, James and John a glimpse of his being in the form of God. This revelation both frightens and draws them. So, Peter says, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here! Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
A reply comes from the cloud. It says, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Nothing at all about building tents. And to the disciples’ disappointment perhaps, suddenly they no longer see anyone but Jesus alone with them. Dropping out of the scene are the representatives of the law and the Prophets. Jesus alone matters.
Jesus alone matters to those who are his partners. Do we listen to Jesus? Are we partners or adversaries?
Lord Jesus, give us a perfect heart to receive your word and sacrament. Make us abundant fruit as your partners.