“Master, it is good and suitable and beautiful for us to be here.”  (Mark 9:5)

Peter was amazed at Jesus’ radiant appearance during His transfiguration, and longed to stay beside Him forever.

Jesus wanted his beloved apostles to treasure this beautiful memory, so that they may have confidence in Him even during His passion.

The brothers, John and James, requested to be seated on Jesus’ left and right when He comes in glory.  Jesus told them, “The cup that I drink you shall drink; but to sit on my right or on my left, this is not Mine to give”.

Jesus was equipping the Apostles with all they need to build the future Church with every word that He uttered and with every action that He performed.

In fact, joy and bliss may be found wherever Jesus is present – under one condition though.  We must be willing to “drink the cup” that Jesus has prepared for us.  Thus, we need to set aside our own worries and live for others even in times of our suffering, for Jesus is with us during times of joy and suffering.