Week 4 – Day 18 (Tuesday)

Psalm 63:1-4 – Portable Sanctuary

Matthew 17:1-9. They witness a divine encounter involving Jesus, Moses, and Elijah, all glowing. Peter is so touched by the sight that he suggests building lasting structures to remember the moment. Just like during Jesus’ baptism, we once again hear the voice from heaven say, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased...” (Matthew 17:5). The disciples react by falling face down in worship.

It is interesting to observe that this remarkable encounter does not end with the proposed building project, but with the following verse, “As they were coming down the mountain…” (Matthew 17:9). Possibly, this is to suggest that mountain-top experiences are extraordinary but not meant to be permanent, for we were made for the valley.

Today’s psalm was written by David as his own son, Absalom, was hunting him down. In his moments of pain and profound disillusionment, he remembers being in the sanctuary and relives the power and glory of God. Sometimes, reliving mountaintop experiences is what helps us get through those “valley moments” in our lives. We are our own portable sanctuary to meet with God.