The Word Became Flesh 

     Of the 12 original disciples, all Jewish men, no thought of being otherwise, Peter, James and John seemed closest to their "teacher." 

     Peter was exuberant. John was the thinker.

     John's close relationship with Jesus resulted in a gospel revealing more fully the mystery of Jesus' personhood: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. - John 1:1-2

     This fisherman/disciple saw him crucified, and knew him after his resurrection. He wrote of creation, life, light, grace, truth and spiritual birth. John wrote, The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. - John 1:14 

     While some or most disciples were martyred, God saved John until old age, when he experienced and recorded a Revelation of miracles - yet to occur in our distant future. 

The Transfiguration     

     Peter, James and John were on a mountain with Jesus when a most unusual miracle surprised them. Moses and Elijah appeared. Jesus' face "shone like the sun." His clothes, "white as light." 

     Of course, exuberant Peter offered to build "three shelters" for them. 

     Then a bright cloud enveloped them and a voice said, This is my Son whom I love. With him I am well pleased. Listen to him. - Matthew 17:1-8

     (Similar to the introduction of his Son after his baptism.)

     The three disciples were terrified and fell face down. Jesus, now alone, touched them, ordering them not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead. 

     Elijah (he who was taken up without normal human death) may return: I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. - Malachi 4:5-6 

This weekend: preparation for Monday