And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. (Matthew 17: 1-2 )

In the captivating account of the disciples Peter, James, and John, we witness a profound revelation atop a mountain. As they stood in the presence of Jesus, something extraordinary happened—they beheld Him in a brilliance that transcended their understanding. Many have labeled this moment as the “transfiguration,” a term often echoed in sermons and teachings. However, the truth runs deeper: it wasn’t Jesus who changed, but rather the disciples whose eyes were opened to perceive His true nature. Until that moment, they had been unaware of the magnificent identity of Christ. But there, on that mountain, their sight was transformed, revealing Him as a radiant light, with His face and garments shining like the sun.

When Jesus declared in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world,” He spoke with absolute authenticity, not merely making a profound statement or expressing a desire. His essence embodies light—the very essence of the Spirit of God, capable of banishing all darkness. This divine light was so powerful that it caused even the demon-possessed to cry out in His presence, as noted in Matthew 8:29. This illuminating presence was the source of liberation and healing for those who approached Him. In John 12:46, Jesus further attests to His purpose: He came as the light so that no believer would dwell in darkness. His light is the ultimate beacon, unrivaled by any other, shining forth from the Spirit of God. Furthermore, He proclaimed that as long as He is in the world, He is the light of the world (John 9:5). But what does this imply for us? It signifies that those who carry His life within them become that very light in a world shrouded in darkness. Matthew 5:14 reminds us: “You are the light of the world.”

It’s interesting to observe that many people feel the need to assert their identity as the light of the world publicly, often in church settings. However, this perspective can be misleading. Our identity as bearers of light is not something that needs to be declared; it is an intrinsic truth rooted in the Spirit. Anyone who possesses eternal life is inherently filled with light, radiating the same brilliance that shines in Matthew 17:1-2.

The dazzling brightness of God reflects the true identity of His children. It’s wonderfully liberating to recognize that the forces of darkness—devils and demons alike—are powerless against this glorious light. This divine brightness serves to free those who find themselves ensnared in darkness, illuminating their path to hope and healing.

Prayer/Confession

Gracious Father in heaven, I am truly grateful for the strength you bestow upon me and for the light you have ignited within. With your guidance, I embrace my true essence, shining brightly in every place I tread. I uplift my prayer that countless miracles will unfold, revealing to all the incredible truth of your nature reflected in me.