In this final Lamplighters lesson before our Advent break, Laura Tuma and Lynn Adams explore the theme of spiritual vision through two powerful moments in Mark 9: the Transfiguration and the healing of a boy with an impure spirit. On the mountaintop, Peter, James, and John catch a breathtaking glimpse of Jesus in his glory, alongside Moses and Elijah. Laura and Lynn unpack the rich Old Testament connections, the contrast between living glory and lifeless idols, and God’s command to the disciples: “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.”

From there, the story moves straight into the valley of suffering, where a desperate father pleads for his son’s healing. Jesus responds with both authority and compassion, leading to the honest, enduring prayer of the father: “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief.” Laura and Lynn reflect on how belief and unbelief can coexist, what it means to develop spiritual vision, and why prayer and regular spiritual practices keep us “prayed up” for the struggles we face. As we enter the season of Advent, this episode invites us to remember that the baby we await in Bethlehem is the same radiant Christ of the mountaintop—and to consider how we will listen and respond to Him in this season.