From a “mountain top” experience to the depths of pain: Jesus is approached by a father who is begging for healing for his son. What parent would not do everything and anything they could to find healing for their son? But in a seeming turn Jesus does not seem to respond with compassion, rather he responds with exasperation. And to whom is he speaking? There is little that is clear here in this story regarding his response.

One thing we do know – whatever the cause of the son’s maladies – there is something wrong with what is happening. This is why Jesus heals the boy, and the people are amazed at the greatness of God; yet another phrase which is also unclear in this context. Are they saying that Jesus is God? Are they praising God because of Jesus’ actions? We are left to wonder. What seems clear is the opposition that will face Jesus and his followers, even after moments on the mountain top.