What does John 13:32 mean?

In verses 31 and 32, Jesus refers several times to the concept of glory. This gives us a unique insight into the mind of God. What is about to happen is shameful, violent, degrading, and unfair. Jesus will be captured and murdered, despite being innocent, just as He predicted would happen (Matthew 16:21). From a human perspective, there is no possible redeeming value to this event. But, from the perspective of God, it's the means by which He will be given glory.

Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross will simultaneously solve two needs: justice for sin, and mercy for those loved by God. That the Creator would do something like that for His own creations is an incredible testament to His love, kindness, holiness, and power. The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are pivotal moments in history—God is greatly glorified in what happens next, and in what it means for those who put their faith in Christ.

The statement that the Son of Man (John 13:31) will be glorified "at once" is translated from the Greek word euthys. This can also be rendered as "immediately," or even "soon." This is probably a reference to Jesus' resurrection into a glorified body only days after His death (John 20:17).