God Is Glorified! – May 22, 2026
Read: John 17:1-11a
After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. John 17:1-3
God Is Glorified!
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Jesus prayed these words to his Father right before he was arrested and put on the cross. Jesus wasn’t only thinking about himself even though he knew he was about to suffer. He was thinking about his friends, his followers, and you! He was thinking about every person in the whole world. Jesus knew that by dying on the cross, he would take away all our sins. Jesus wanted people to see how amazing God’s love really is. Jesus asked his Father to glorify him. “Glorify” means to give honor, praise, and attention. Jesus gave glory to his Father by doing the job God sent him to do—saving sinners. Even a Roman soldier standing near the cross said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
When you hear the word “glory”, you might think of something bright and amazing—like a sky full of heavenly angels or shining stars, a colorful sunset, or fireworks lighting up the night. God’s glory is even greater! It shows us how powerful, loving, and wonderful God is.
But here’s something surprising: The writer of the book of Hebrews in the Bible tells us about Jesus, “For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God” (Hebrews 12:2). Jesus showed God’s glory while suffering on the cross. That doesn’t seem glorious at first. Usually, people want glory by being famous, winning awards, or getting lots of attention. We like people to notice us and tell us how great we are. But Jesus showed true glory by loving others and saving them. His greatest honor was to save us.
Sometimes we want all the “glory” for ourselves. Maybe we want to be the best player, get the highest grade, or hear everyone clap for us. Our sinful nature loves to be the center of attention! When that happens, we can ask God to forgive us and help us remember that every good thing comes from him. Through our faith in Jesus, we pray that we give glory, honor and respect to God in what we say and do.
But the story didn’t end at the cross! Jesus rose from the dead on Easter morning. Now THAT was glorious! Glory filled the earth in a risen Savior! God is glorified! Jesus lives; we too will live. A crown of glory waits for us in heaven. Now THAT will be glorious!
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, we know that at times we do not give you the glory and honor you deserve. Forgive us. Help our lives be a reflection of you until you call us to our eternal home where perfect glory awaits. Amen.
The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.
Questions for Younger Children
- Before Jesus died on the cross, who was he thinking about? (Hint: not himself) Why is that amazing?
- What is one thing you can do this week at home or school that shows God’s love?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
- What does the word “glory” mean? Can you think of something beautiful or amazing that reminds you of God’s glory?
- How did Jesus bring glory to his Father by dying on the cross? How can you give glory to God?
Questions for Middle School and Above
- When are you tempted to make everything “all about me”? What could you do instead?
- Discuss: How can being kind, helpful, or brave, especially during hard times, give glory to God?
