I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began. John 17:4-5

Jesus’ “work” was coming to an abrupt completion. It would be completed and he would be seated at his rightful place in heaven, at the right hand of God. He’s praying so his disciples can hear and they must have been taken back by the words “with you before the world began.” The man in front of them was THERE when it all started. He made it all happen.

As you ponder these verses, consider the significance of Jesus Christ being with God the Father before the world began.

Heaven. Peace. Perfection.

Then consider what it must have taken for Jesus to come down from the throne to arrive at this filthy, sinful place – only to be mocked and ridiculed and killed. Of course he loved us though it’s difficult to understand why.

And that’s the beauty of the Savior and the salvation message.