Reflection
The hope of glory in Romans 5:2 isn’t about our future glory, but about beholding God’s breath-taking glory in eternity.
God’s glory (Hebrew kabod, meaning “weight”) is both intrinsic (His magnificence, perfection, goodness, power) and extrinsic (His creation, salvation, Word). In essence and presence, He is majestic yet intimate, consuming yet comforting. When Moses pleaded to see God’s Glory, he only had a glimpse but not His face, else he’d die (Exodus 33). All have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23).
Yet God’s Shekinah glory dwelt with mankind throughout history. At times, the glory seem to have departed (1 Samuel 4) when the people departed from Him. But Jesus came in personified glory, full of grace and truth (John 1:14, Hebrews 1:3, Psalm 22-24). Ultimately, the weight was displayed on the cross - His holiness, justice, the humility of His love, mercy and goodness that trembled heavens and earth; then the glorious power of resurrection and dawning of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer
Jesus, how we hope for the wonder of eternity. It’s not about us drifting to meet You, but You dwelling with us in the fullness of Your abiding glory and love. How great Thou art, Lord.
Dennis Pho
