Wednesday, May 13, 2026

John 17:4 

Jesus prayed: “I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do.” 

How do you glorify God? 

I usually associate “glorifying God” with worship and praise. I gather with y’all on a Saturday night or a Sunday morning. I especially love to worship God as we sing the liturgy, the old hymns, and my favorite contemporary songs. And of course I love to hear the story of Jesus read from the Bible. And I celebrate the sacraments whenever they are offered (which will be at every service come this autumn!!!) 

But today’s verse expanded my understanding of GLORIFY. Jesus says that he glorifies God by “finishing the work” that he was given. Jesus came to earth for the reconciliation of the world through the cross (which he is about to face in the next chapters of John) and he came to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28) so that his disciples will tell the whole world of God’s love. 

The definition of LITURGY is “the work of the people.” So truly our worship of the triune God on Sunday is part of our work. But how do we glorify God the other six days? What work do you do for the kingdom of God at church? At home? At school or work? In the community? With your family and friends? 

This is what living out our Christian faith is all about! 

– Pr. Elizabeth

God, I know I am not saved by works, but by grace. And because of your grace in my life, make me more aware today of how all I do and say brings glory to you! Amen