Mountaintop experiences give us perspective. Whether it’s a literal mountain or figurative, we all occasionally need the clarity and affirmation that can come from these times. It is easy to get confused on our identity and calling. Who are you and why do you exist? There are many sources eager to answer those questions for you, but God’s opinion matters most. Lent is a natural time to seek God on the “mountain,” so to speak.

God clarifies identity and calling on the mountaintop.

In Mark 9, we read of Jesus’ Transfiguration on a high mountain near Caesarea Philippi. He took along Peter, James and John and they witnessed Jesus speaking with Moses and Elijah. In his second epistle, Peter later describes how the mountaintop experience clarified his mission and message as a witness for Jesus (see 2 Pet. 1:16-18). In the preceding chapter of Mark, Jesus clarified Peter’s identity as the “rock” on which Jesus would build his church. This would be a hard work for Peter, but having a heavenly view of Jesus’ glory enabled him to minister back down in the valley. Mountaintop experiences equip us for the valleys below.

Jesus also received affirmation on the mountain. Just like what happened at his baptism (Mark 1:11), a voice from the Father in heaven declared Jesus’ sonship and his Father’s love. This was right before he would be severely tested in his call to bear our sins on the Cross. Because Jesus was clear on his identity and calling, he was able to change ours. On the Cross he won for us the way to become adopted sons and daughters of God and witnesses to the Gospel.

Taking It Home: Have you gone up on the “mountain” recently to seek clarity from God? Use Lent to get alone with God, and ask him who you are and what you are to do.