According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the word glory in John 17:5 is defined as, “the splendor and beatific happiness of heaven.” It is a place, synonymous with eternity or heaven. Jesus looked forward to returning to the glory of God in 17:5, “Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.” While He experienced joy on earth as He walked with His beloved disciples, played with the children, taught the people, He was longing for the joy of the Father. He longed to bask in His glory and share in His glory. He had heaven on His mind.
Do you live as though you have heaven on your mind as Jesus did? Do you long for God’s glory and eternity? We can live on earth as though we are destined for God’s glory. The word glory does not just mean eternity, but it also means “praise, honor, or distinction extended by common consent,” or “worshipful praise, honor, and thanksgiving,” according to Merriam-Webster. Every time you go before the Lord in prayer you experience His glory. When you are with other believers in fellowship, you can experience His glory. When you raise your hands in worship, you can experience His glory. When you bask in the beauty of His creation, you can feel His presence and experience His glory.
Jesus lived a life on earth worshipping and loving the Father. He glorified God on Earth, through His death and resurrection, and when He returned to sit at the right-hand of the Father. His life, death, and eternity was fulfilled. As believers, we can live the same way. May our lives glorify the Lord; may we glorify Him in death and eternity.