Seeing the Glory of the Son of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Christmas Season:   31st December - Wednesday*

*Gospel :  1:1-18*

*First Reading : 1 John 2:18-21*

*Responsorial Psalm : 96:1-13*

*Seeing the Glory of the Son of God*

*1) What does “we have seen his glory” mean?*

In the Bible, “glory” does not mainly mean brightness or fame. It means God’s true nature being revealed.

When John says “we have seen his glory,” he is saying:

God, who is usually invisible, made Himself known through Jesus

The disciples experienced God’s character up close—through Jesus’ words, actions, and way of loving people

This “seeing” is not only physical sight. It also means recognizing who Jesus truly is.

*2) How is the glory of the Son of God seen?*

*A) In Jesus’ humanity*

The surprising part is that God’s glory is seen not by avoiding humanity, but by entering it. Jesus experienced hunger, tiredness, joy, grief, friendship, and suffering. This shows:

God is not distant

God chooses closeness and humility

God’s glory is revealed through humility, not power alone.

*B) In Jesus’ character*

John especially connects glory with grace and truth (later in the verse).

*Grace*: kindness, forgiveness, compassion

*Truth*: honesty, faithfulness, moral clarity

Jesus shows God’s glory by how He treats: The outcast, The sinner, The weak, The confused

God’s glory looks like love lived out, not domination.

*C) In Jesus’ works and signs*

The disciples saw God’s glory through what Jesus did: Healing the sick, Restoring dignity, Bringing hope, Showing authority over nature and evil

These signs point beyond themselves to who Jesus is.

God’s power is meant to heal and restore, not impress.

*D) In the cross and resurrection*

Paradoxically, the greatest revelation of glory comes through suffering and self-giving love.

The cross shows God’s love taken to the extreme

The resurrection shows God’s victory over sin and death

God’s glory shines brightest where love costs the most.

*3) What does “only begotten Son” signify?*

This phrase emphasizes:

Jesus’ unique relationship with the Father

He is not just one messenger among many

He fully shares God’s nature while being distinct as the Son

To know Jesus is to truly know God’s heart.

*4) How do we “see” this glory today?*

We see the Son’s glory:

Through the Gospel accounts

Through lives transformed by His teaching

Through acts of love, mercy, and truth inspired by Him

Through faith—recognizing God at work even when He comes quietly

God’s glory is still revealed wherever Christ-like love is lived out.

*Am I seeing the Glory of the Son of God through the Gospel Values? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*