Can we imagine a world without temptation? It would not be as easy as we might think. We would not know our inner strengths and weaknesses, and we might not experience the mercy and forgiveness of God.

Temptations can be our friends if we use them to measure our spiritual progress and grow stronger. In the end, we rely on the generosity and loving-kindness of God, which flows from above and into our hearts.

The trip up the mountain was terrifying for the Apostles. They saw Jesus ablaze with light and talking to Moses and Elijah. They were both lawgivers and powerful prophets of God, but Jesus would surpass them all.

The same voice that spoke at the baptism of Jesus spoke again, affirming Jesus as the beloved Son. Rather than building shrines as Peter proposed, they should listen to the beloved Son.

From this point on, Jesus often talked of his arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection. But the disciples did not understand his words or chose to ignore them.

Our own journey to God will involve struggle and suffering, and no one, however rich, powerful, or important, can avoid it.