Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Nm. 21:4b-9 | Ps. 78:1-2, 34-38 | Phil. 2:6-11 | Jn. 3:13-17
Today is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. What is this all about? We as a Church have learned that we cannot be part of the Disciples of Christ if we do not recognize the gift of Christ to us and the gift of Christ’s acceptance of the Cross in His life for the salvation of all people for all time. Without this great gift and the death of Jesus, we would not have this salvation. All the readings speak about sacrifice in some manner. The Jewish people, in the book of Numbers, are saved through the raising of the stick of Moses and his striking of this rock which brought forth the water of life. Moses was told by Yahweh to do so. Obedience to God’s call is key. Paul teaches us that Jesus was the prime example of obedience by His acceptance of the Cross. Because Christ did so, He was exalted by God. John’s Gospel also reminds us that Christ was obedient to God and that His response of “Yes” came out of His deep love and compassion for us. Christ entered deeply into the mystery of our suffering and death and took on this suffering to heal us.
Spend time thinking/meditating on these scripture passages. Choose one to use for your prayer. Allow yourself to hear the words; and, then hear them at the deeper level of your spirit. Consider the depth of love that God has for you through this great action of Christ. Talk to Jesus about His suffering. Spend time in silence to allow yourself to hear Christ’s response. Accept this love of Christ and bring it to all you meet today