Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared, but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

   - 1 John 3.2

For if the eminence of the Divine Essence surpasses the purest power of angelic contemplation, how will the happiness of human nature be able to contemplate the Divine Essence?

   - Eriugena, Periphyseon, Irish, 9th century

The Apostle Paul said that the glory of God may be known in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 4.6). How can we access the face of our Savior and King?

There are descriptions in the Scriptures, notably in Revelation 1, but also in many psalms and elsewhere. However, those are strictly second-hand descriptions (but significant). We cannot see the actual face of Jesus now, because we could not bear to see it. The beauty, grandeur, power, and brilliance of the glory-filled face of Jesus would wilt us, so sinful are we in so many ways. See how John, in Revelation 1, was staggered at being confronted by the face of Jesus, and we, beloved, are not in the same class as the beloved apostle.

But a day is coming, John reminds us, when we will see Him as He is, see Him face to face, and not have to fear annihilation. We cannot bear to look on Him now because He is too glorious, but a day is coming when we shall be glorious as He is, because we will be like Him, and then we may look on Him without fear.

Indeed, in that day He will be the light of all creation, and we will dwell forever in that light, full of joy and praise, basking in purest pleasure and delight (Ps. 16.11).

So, although we may not look upon Him now, let it suffice for us to turn the eye of faith on our exalted Lord and King, being guided by His Word (Ps. 119.135) and Spirit (Ezek. 39.29), to as true a contemplation as we can know in this life, one which will prepare us with great joy and anticipation for our face-to-face meeting with Jesus one day soon.

Glory awaits us in the face of Jesus Christ – uplifting and transforming glory. Will you contemplate the face of Jesus today?

Psalm 11.4, 7 (Tidings: “O Zion, Haste, Your Mission High Fulfilling”)
Know that the Lord is in His holy temple; firmly His throne is fixed on high above.
He watches o’er the mighty and the simple, graciously caring for them in His love.
Jesus is righteous, loving the just; all will behold His face who on His mercy trust.

Lord, blaze in my soul, as you did in Patrick’s, and illuminate the eye of my heart to see You in glory, love You in glory, and participate in You in glory!