Matthew 17:8 “When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.”

Have you ever been talking to someone who was not paying attention to you? You can tell from their body language that they are not listening. In fact, maybe in the middle of your sentence they break out into a completely different conversation or, even worse, walk away to engage someone else. Jesus took three of His most trusted followers to a special event, but instead of riveting their focus on Him, these men got sidetracked by others.

Over the years our family has laughed about an unspoken policy in our household. Whenever we eat out, there are certain family members who must stay seated with their backs to the door. We have learned that it is hard to have focused conversations with these individuals if they are in the wrong seat because they are easily distracted. Hence, we made the “back to the door” policy to keep the attention on us and make sure we feel seen and heard.

God enforced a similar policy on the three men who accompanied Jesus to a special event. Peter, James, and John experienced the special privilege of watching Jesus be transfigured on the top of a mountain. At the same time Jesus’ transformation took place, two ancient prophets appeared and began talking to Jesus.

Peter, so enthralled by the scene, blurted out, “If you wish, I will put up three shelters – one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”

In the grandeur of the moment, Peter forgot who he was there to see. He became distracted by the appearance of the other important figures who paled in comparison to Jesus.

While Peter was still voicing his grand plan to honor all three of the actors on the mountain, a bright cloud appeared and a voice boomed an important message. “This is my beloved Son . . .  Listen to Him!”

When the disciples heard the voice, they fell down, scared to death. But while they lay on the ground wondering about all they had seen, they suddenly heard Jesus’ encouraging words. “Get up,” He said. “Don’t be afraid.”  “When they looked up, they saw no one but Jesus.”

On the way down the mountain Jesus explained more about the important mission He had come to fulfill. Wicked men would kill Him, but then He would rise again procuring salvation for all who would believe.

No wonder God put in place the “back to the door” policy when it came to Jesus. He alone deserves all glory, power, and honor.

We, also, may get sidetracked by worldly distractions. But we must make sure to keep our eyes focused on the right Person. Jesus deserves all our attention. So, turn your gaze upward, keep your back to the door, and do whatever it takes so you are sure to see no one but Jesus.