Read Matthew 17:4.
Peter is often disparaged for offering to make booths for Jesus, Moses and Elijah. Peter's supposed motive was that he just had to say something since that was his track record. His hasty words were ill-timed, irresponsible or inappropriate. That very well might be the case here.
What if there was another motive? What if Peter's motive wasn't to interrupt Jesus' conversation with Moses and Elijah? What if Peter's motive was to shield himself, James and John from the glory? After all, this was an intense situation! Jesus was present, the giver of the Law was present and a great prophet was present. Glory radiated from Jesus. Peter knew that he was out of his league.
The silence of the three disciples, to this point, was prompted by awe and fear. They knew something was required from them but didn't know what. Come to find out, they had already demonstrated the proper response.
Don't offer activity in place of awe. Don't offer to cut down trees when you need to fall on your knees. Don't ruin a glorious moment by speaking. There are times in worship when the most appropriate response is to say and do nothing. "I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene..." Amazement is enough.
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