Happy New Years everyone
This is the second day of new year celebrations in the Jewish community. I invite us to reflect on its significance for our lives as we ponder today’s Holy Nougat
“Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus.” Matthew 17:3 NLT
How did they know it was Moses and Elijah, seriously? Was it their clothing, their demeanor, the things they talked about, or their fame? I strongly doubt it. Jewish tradition expected those two to return before the Messiah arrived.
But Why those two? I suspect it has to do with the fact that neither Moses nor Elijah ‘saw death’ while on earth. (Remember – Elijah was taken up in fine style before his mentee [1 Kings1] and it was God who buried Moses [Deuteronomy 34]). Or perhaps it was that they both had such powerful ministries – the Great Deliverer and the Great Prophet, both larger than life. Perhaps both. I always wonder however, whether this meeting was more about Restoration.
Moses and Elijah had both retired from active ministry after they hurt God by their lack of faith/loss of temper. After continuous negotiations With God, one moment of anger cost Moses entry into the Promised Land. And, having defeated all the prophets of Baal, Elijah complained bitterly about the burden of being a fugitive, failing to realize/acknowledge the other prophets who had still been faithful. And Both were succeeded by powerful leaders whom they apprenticed.
If tthose truly were the ones who met with Jesus, and my Restoration theory holds true; then it means that we genuinely have a Living Hope for God’s forgiveness and Restoration in Christ Jesus! Ask Zaccheus, Peter, the Woman at Sychar or even the one who escaped stoning for adultery. And while the more recent restored did not meet Him on the mountain, they understood the divinity of Jesus! They understood Forgiveness!
So as the Jews celebrate the second day of New Year celebrations; we join in their thanksgiving for forgiveness. We celebrate Restoration to righteousness in Christ! We celebrate hope renewed and Grace multiplied. What are you waiting for?!
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In and for Christ’s love
