We Cannot bottle the Spirit

4Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (Matthew 17:4)

Thoughts: We would like to can the moment.  We would like to take the time when we most experienced God and box it up so it would never go away.  Peter wanted to make this temporary but wonderful experience a lasting one.  He wanted to put up at least a tent and maybe a house for each of the three special people.  He was willing to go without and let James and John go without too- just so it would last.  But this transfiguration was not heaven.  It was only a glimpse of heaven. They would have to move through the cross to get to the next big glimpse- the resurrection of Jesus.  The transfiguration was really a time of encouragement and preparation for Jesus and the disciples to face their biggest heartbreak- the arrest, suffering and death of Jesus.
     So we too would like to stay at the Christian conference and never go home.  We would like to remain on the mission trip where our faith grew.  Maybe we would like to stay on vacation just a bit longer.  We cannot bottle the Spirit any more than we can "can" the wind. The Church has tried many times but failed.  Our calling is to answer the call to be the best we can be for the glory of God wherever He leads us.  Our calling to honor God- though difficult at times- is where we need to be, and is a step closer to our real home and peace.  

Prayer: Lord, let me take my spiritual highs and grow from them.  Let your encouragement always work through me to accomplish your goals for me.