06/23/2026
"Having the glory of God. Her radiance was like a most precious stone, like jasper, clear as crystal." - Revelation 21:11 TLV
As the apostle John describes the New Jerusalem, the first thing he notices is not its size, walls, or streets—it is the Glory of God. "Having the Glory of God" (Revelation 21:11). The city shines with a beauty that comes directly from God's Presence. Its radiance is compared to a precious jasper stone, clear and brilliant, reflecting the splendor of the Lord.
Throughout Scripture, God's Glory has always been the distinguishing mark of His presence. When the Tabernacle was completed, "the Glory of Adonai filled the Tabernacle" (Exodus 40:34). Likewise, when Solomon dedicated the Temple, "the Glory of Adonai filled the House of Adonai" (1 Kings 8:11). God's Glory transformed ordinary places into sacred spaces because He was there.
The New Jerusalem reveals the fulfillment of God's desire to dwell with His people forever. What was once experienced in part will be experienced in fullness. John later writes, "Behold, the dwelling of God is among men, and He shall tabernacle among them" (Revelation 21:3). The Glory that filled the Tabernacle and Temple will permanently fill God's eternal city.
This Glory is not only a future reality; it is also a present calling. Through Messiah Yeshua, believers are being transformed to reflect God's Glory even now. 2 Corinthians 3:18 says, "We all, with unveiled faces, beholding the Glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to Glory." The more we draw near to Him, the more His character is seen in our lives.
One day, faith will become sight. There will be no need for the sun or moon, for "the Glory of God illuminates it, and its lamp is the Lamb" (Revelation 21:23). The radiance of God's Presence will outshine every earthly light. Until that day, we are called to walk as children of light, reflecting His Glory in a dark world.