Daily Devotional: Jesus Comes Out

Hey wonderful friends! Glad to have you back! Today, we're exploring our daily devotional and sharing a brief, uplifting thought to add a little sparkle to your day. If you have a moment, take a look at Matthew 17:1-13 in your favourite Bible translation. Otherwise, read the excerpt below and notice what resonates with you:

If you're short on time, focus on this excerpt:

'While he was still speaking, look, a bright cloud overshadowed them. A voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son whom I dearly love. I am very pleased with him. Listen to him!” Hearing this, the disciples fell on their faces, filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said, “Don’t be afraid.” When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.'

In this passage, Jesus experiences something akin to a coming out moment, a concept familiar to many queer and transgender individuals. He takes his closest friends to a secluded place and reveals a new aspect of his identity to them. The Transfiguration marks a significant shift in Jesus’s life and ministry, akin to a personal revelation.

Coming out can be daunting and isn't a one-time event. Each new interaction, job, or move can prompt a new coming out experience. Even when we are out and confident, the process can be tiring, as we worry about rejection and the constant need to explain our identities.

However, each coming out moment offers a chance for deeper connection. It’s an opportunity to share a part of ourselves and strengthen our relationships. It allows others to see and affirm us, creating moments of intimacy where they can say, “This is my friend in whom I am well pleased.”

Reflection Questions:
What does it mean to you to think of Jesus having a moment of “coming out” about his identity?
What have your various coming out experiences been like (even if you’re only out to yourself)?
How has coming out deepened your connections with others?

Practical Exercises:
Write a note of encouragement to someone who isn’t out yet. Consider sharing how coming out has impacted your life through a Facebook post or Instagram photo.
Compose a letter to your closeted self, reflecting on the insights you’ve gained since then.
Find a trusted person in your life to have a meaningful conversation with, revealing something new about yourself.

That concludes today’s devotional! I hope this message has brightened your day. If you found it meaningful, please consider sharing it to spread the positivity. Thank you for joining us today—remember to celebrate your uniqueness! Stay well and keep a positive mindset until we meet again.

Footnotes:

Source: Kearns, S., & Murphy, B. (2020). "Queers the Word" - (Adapted for reflection of The Transfiguration. Scripture: Matthew 17:1-13

Image Title: "Rainbow Transfiguration" Source: Midjourney’s image generation model.

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