Perfect and Gracious

Preparing for a wedding is a mammoth task.  Coupled with the desire of trying to make everything perfect, the pressure can be overwhelming.  I have found when our expectation is perfection, we will almost always be disappointed--even when we have done our best.  As a groomsman years ago, I remember watching other groomsmen tie and retie their neckties to acheive the perfect looking knot.  What's funny is the ties we wore back then are probably so out of style no one would consider wearing them today.

I am amazed at the level of detail people consider and the extensive preparation when it comes to outfits, makeup, accessories, suits and shoes for weddings and special events.  Even as people put a great deal more thought and investment into their wardrobes than I do, God has considered more intricate and intimate details about us and the world we live in.  The God who created all things is the God of details that are bigger than the universe and smaller than cells, molecules and atoms.  He is a God of order and wisdom that makes me wonder at His awesome knowledge and power.  When it came to the redemption and salvation of mankind by sending His only begotten Son Jesus, God thought of everything and executed His plan to perfection.

The other day I read of the account of the transfiguration in the Gospel of Matthew in chapter 17.  Jesus took Peter, James and John and went up to a mountain where He was transfigured in their presence and spoke with Elijah and Moses.  As they conversed, Peter piped up about how great it was to be there and suggested they build a tabernacle for each of them.  Then as Peter was speaking, God spoke out of a bright cloud that overshadowed them and said, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased:  hear Him."  Peter and the other apostles fell on their faces in fear.  Matthew 17:7 says, "But Jesus came and touched them and said, “Arise, and do not be afraid.”  How wonderful and gracious Jesus was, having just been talked over by Peter.  From a human view, the grand moment of transfiguration planned from before the creation of the world was marred by Peter's offhand comments, yet Jesus was unphased and compassionate.

There are times Jesus rebuked His disciples for their words and unbelief, but in this case Jesus went to them, touched them and bid them stand.  He told them not to be afraid, though they had experienced the fearful presence of the almighty God who addressed them from heaven.  There was not the slightest hint of disappointment or dashed expectations in Jesus due to Peter speaking rather than listening to Him.  The transfiguration of Jesus was much more momentous than a picture taken at a wedding or filing the paperwork that follows.  Jesus bringing disciples to witness His transfiguration shows God makes allowances for us to be our imperfect selves and still includes us in His plans, lifts us up when we fall, and helps us stand by His side.  The character of our God is uniquely perfect and gracious.  May we extend to everyone else the grace God has lovingly given us.

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