Mount Hermon, a limestone mountain with an elevation over 9,000 feet, is located in northern Israel. Snow-capped the year-round, it has meadows as green as emeralds, clear water ponds and vibrant hills flooded with wild flowers. Thirty miles long with three large peaks, Mount Hermon seems more like a mountain range than a single mountain. Pine forests, fruit and almond orchards cover the lower slopes.
The mountain has been considered sacred for hundreds of years. Archaeologists have surveyed more than twenty temples, many of which seem to be Canaanite or Phoenician cult centers where Baal Shamaim (Lord of the Heavens) might have been worshipped. However, Jesus spent time on this mountain too. He led Peter, James and John here to witness His transfiguration. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes gleamed the purest white. He talked with Moses and Elijah. Peter was so amazed by the experience he volunteered to build three shrines – one for Moses, one for Elijah, and one for Jesus. While the words were still on his tongue, a bright cloud overshadowed them and a voice spoke from it. “This is my son whom I love. With him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” (Matthew 17:5). Terrified, the disciples fell on their faces. Jesus reached down and touched them. “Don’t be afraid,” He said. When they looked up, they only saw Jesus.
Peter took time to process what happened and later testified about this experience in his ministry: “We were eyewitnesses of his majesty. He received honor and glory from God the Father, when a voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, ‘This is my son whom I love . . .’ We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain” (2 Peter 1:15-18).
Like Peter, I am still processing my journey through Israel and walking closer to God. Whatever trail you are on, take time to ponder, discuss and relive mountain top experiences. Consider how God may want you to use them for His glory.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord for the opportunity to walk in the land where you walked and to see the things you saw. Thank you for opening up your stories so we can see your word more clearly. Send your Holy Spirit on each of us to understand and apply your will in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A Closer Walk with God 