The Glory of Jesus
And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Luke 9:30-31
We know we are drawn to glorious things. But what about suffering? Do you enjoy going to hospitals, nursing homes, or hospice houses? While we long for glory, we want to flee suffering – we don’t even want to think about it.
The suffering of the cross was always on Jesus’ mind. Early in His ministry He told Nicodemus, “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:14-15) In the days leading up to His crucifixion He said, “For this purpose I came to this hour.” (John 12:27) The cross is why Jesus was born into the world.
Even in this glorious moment on the mountain, what was it Jesus was talking about with Moses and Elijah? What was occupying their heavenly conversation? They spoke of “His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.” They were talking about the cross.
Of course they were! Christ crucified to reconcile us to God was the most glorious thing that has ever happened in the history of the world. It is so glorious that heaven continues to echo with this hymn of praise: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12)
Let us join this glorious conversation. Paul directs us: “We preach Christ crucified.” (1 Corinthians 1:23) Jesus tells us, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Mark 8:34) Let us join Moses, Elijah, and the halls of heaven in glorifying Jesus who bore the cross for our salvation, even as we take up our own cross and follow Him.
In the cross of Christ I glory, Tow’ring o’er the wrecks of time.All the light of sacred story Gathers round its head sublime.
Bane and blessing, pain and pleasure By the cross are sanctified;Peace is there that knows no measure, Joys that through all time abide. Amen.
Lutheran Service Book 427:1,4