As we continue to do the work needed on the mountain top, we ask God to shed light on our routines and habits. Help us to choose life and love. What is keeping you from being whom God has called you to be?

As we sit on the mountain top, we are left in the tension of knowing and not yet knowing. Getting it and not yet getting it all. We must know our past to create a future together. What do you need to reflect on from your past before looking towards the future?

As we travel up the mountain with Jesus and the disciples, we are able to imagine the glimpse of dazzling glory in the Transfiguration story. Any encounter with God changes us. Remain here awhile and ponder where your heart needs inner change.

Join Fr. Michael in the bonus episode each week to go deeper in the desert. This is the 1st bonus episode.

We begin to recognize that our success, possessions, and accomplishments don’t ultimately count for much in the desert. What are your temptations? What do you believe is success? What is attractive to you about the temptations in the desert?

In the desert, Jesus was tempted to jump from the high mountain to assume leadership by force of all the kingdoms of the world. This would be a misuse of political power for purposes less than God’s purpose. In what ways are leadership and politics being misused today?

In the desert, Jesus was tempted to jump from the top of the Temple and let the angels break his fall. This would be a misuse of religious power for purposes less than God’s purpose. In what ways are Scripture or religion being misused today?

In the desert, Jesus was tempted to change stones into bread to appease his human tendency for hunger. This would be a misuse of practical everyday power for purposes less than God’s purpose. In what ways are you tempted to take the easy way out to appease your human desires?

We are bombarded by voices and have become lost in trusting the voice of the world over the voice of God. It can be difficult to discern, but the voice of the world divides and destroys. The voice of God is love, calling us to care for one another and to build one another up. When you listen with your heart, whose voice is loudest?

We have a strong urge to resist change and prefer what is comfortable so we can know what to expect. God is calling you deeper into a relationship which will lead to a transformation of yourself. Will you follow God’s call?