Memorize this verse as a family:

Matthew 17:5: While he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!

Listen. Sometimes the truth about someone is hidden. For example, if you looked at a caterpillar, you might be surprised to see it transform itself into a butterfly with wings. The same is true with Jesus. By all appearances, Jesus looked like a man. But one day Jesus went up on a mountain with three of his disciples, and he was changed. Jesus’ hidden self could now be seen. 

Read Matthew 17:1-5 together and discuss the following questions. Look for light, two visitors, a cloud, and a voice. Each one will tell us something about Jesus. 

• If God is light, what does it say about Jesus that his face shines like the sun and bright light comes from his clothes?
• If Moses and Elijah are two of the biggest heroes in the Old Testament, and they came all the way from heaven to talk to Jesus, what does this say about Jesus?
• Clouds are usually dark. What do you think it means that the cloud that covers the disciples is full of bright light? Who is in that cloud?
• We hear a voice coming from the cloud. What does the voice tell us about Jesus?

Respond. Read Matthew 17:6 together. How do the disciples feel when they hear God’s voice from the cloud? How would you feel if you were standing there and saw Jesus’ big change and heard God’s voice?

Read Matthew 17:7. How does Jesus help his disciples who are very afraid?

How do you feel about Jesus after reading about his big change (Transfiguration, if you want to be technical)?

• How are you thankful for Jesus?
• Why should Jesus be worshipped? 
• If God the Father wants us to listen to him how will we do that as a family? (Listening means more than just listening; it also means doing what Jesus says and teaching others.)
• How do you feel you should say sorry to Jesus?

Share. Who will tell about Jesus’ big change? Make a plan to share this story with them.