JOHN 17:1–5
“FATHER, THE HOUR HAS COME”: JESUS PRAYS FOR GLORY
Text – John 17:1–5
1 Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your Son, so that your Son may glorify you,
2 just as you gave him authority over all people, so that he may give eternal life to all you gave him.
3 Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.
4 I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do.
5 Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Public prayer with uplifted eyes was a familiar Jewish posture, expressing trust and filial dependence. The language of “hour” in Jewish Scripture often marked decisive moments in God’s saving plan. Jesus’ prayer echoes priestly intercession found in the Hebrew Scriptures, especially on behalf of the people before decisive covenantal acts. Speaking of pre-existent glory would have been striking to Jewish hearers, pointing beyond prophetic mission to divine origin.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage opens the High Priestly Prayer, revealing the inner life of the Trinity. Catholic theology teaches that the “hour” is the Passion, Cross, and Resurrection—where glory is paradoxically revealed through self-giving love. Eternal life is defined not merely as unending existence but as personal knowledge and communion with God through Christ. Jesus’ authority to give eternal life affirms His divinity and mission. The request to be glorified with the Father recalls Christ’s eternal pre-existence and equality with God, central to Trinitarian faith.
Parallels in Scripture
Daniel 7:13–14 – Authority given to the Son of Man.
Isaiah 53:10–12 – Glory through suffering.
John 1:1–4 – Pre-existence of the Word.
Philippians 2:6–11 – Glory following self-emptying.
1 John 5:11–12 – Eternal life in the Son.
Key Terms
Hour – The moment of Passion and glorification.
Glory – God revealed through obedient love.
Authority – Divine power to give eternal life.
Eternal life – Knowing God through Christ.
Before the world began – Christ’s pre-existence.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed near the end of the Easter season and on solemn occasions reflecting Christ’s priestly mission. The Church contemplates Jesus as High Priest who offers Himself and intercedes for humanity.
Conclusion
John 17:1–5 reveals the heart of Jesus’ mission: to glorify the Father by giving eternal life through loving obedience. The Cross, far from defeat, becomes the revelation of divine glory and the gateway to communion with God.
Reflection
How do I understand glory in light of the Cross?
Do I seek eternal life as a living relationship with God?
How does Christ’s prayer shape my trust in the Father?
Prayer
Father of glory, through Your Son You have revealed eternal life. Draw me into deeper knowledge of You, that I may live in communion with You through Jesus Christ. May my life glorify You in faithful love. Amen.