The Glory of the Cross

31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. 32 If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and glorify him at once. 33 Little children, yet a little while I am with you. You will seek me, and just as I said to the Jews, so now I also say to you, ‘Where I am going you cannot come.’ 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 13:31-35
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The Glory of the Cross
When Jesus speaks of glory, He speaks of the cross. Not triumph in worldly strength, but glory hidden in suffering, sacrifice, and love. Jesus’ “glorification” begins not with the resurrection, but with His betrayal, because His love is already at work to save. Jesus gives His disciples a new command: to love one another as He has loved them. Not love defined by feeling or convenience, but love shaped by the cross, self-giving, patient, forgiving, and willing to bear another’s burden. The world knows many definitions of love. But the love Jesus gives us, and commands of us, is rooted in His death and resurrection. This love is not earned, nor is it deserved. It is given, freely, and poured out richly. In Christ’s cross, we are loved without measure. And in that same love, we are sent to love. Lord, make Your cross-shaped love our witness.