In today's Gospel reading, Jesus summons Peter, James and John up to a mountain, where Moses and Elijah appear. They, with Jesus, are in a transfigured state, radiant and white.

The disciples are awed and confused. A voice comes from heaven and announces, "This is my beloved son, with whom I am pleased, listen to him," and Moses and Elijah disappear.

Peter, James and John see Jesus in a new state of being, and don't understand what they see. I can relate to this experience.

There have been many times in my life when I feel close to God, yet I still don't feel a sense of clarity or direction. I would like some kind of explicit instructions or explanation. What am I supposed to do about a job, a relationship or some other important decision?

Perhaps I would be wise to heed what the voice from heaven tells Peter, James and John in today's reading: "Listen to him." After these words are spoken, everything else disappears. Maybe the same would be true for me if, when I am confused, I would spend more time listening for the voice of God than I spent trying to solve my problems on my own.

I have to admit that, when faced with a difficult decision, I tend to worry more than I pray. My mind races through various choices and the results that might come from them. In most cases, I imagine the worst possible outcomes, and simply grow more and more anxious in the process.

Even when I pray, I tend to worry. I express my desired outcome to God, and ask God to prevent all the awful scenarios I've imagined. I have a hard time listening, trying to tune into what God might be trying to tell me or show me through whatever the situation might be.

We all surrounded by so many voices. There are voices in our heads, worrying and fretting over people and events. There are voices at our jobs, in our families, and other relationships, expressing opinions and expectations. There are voices in our hearts, longings and desires that we're often unsure of - wondering where they come from and if we should trust them.

In the midst of all these voices, we are called to listen to Jesus. This challenge comes to us in Lent, when we are asked to reflect on our lives and how aligned we are with God's will. Today's Gospel suggests that there are times when we should do less talking in our relationship with God and spend more time listening, and letting the voice of God break through the other voices and noises that surround us.

We are used to "doing." When he sees Moses and Elijah and Jesus shining brightly, Peter wants to do something. He suggests that he build some tents so that everyone would be more comfortable. "Listen to him" is God's response. There are times when the best thing we can do for ourselves and others is to sit still and listen.

Bill Peatman writes from Napa.