THE POWER OF THE CROSS

 

THE POWER OF THE CROSS

The Cross of Jesus is both an instrument of torture and death and the means for our salvation. It is almost impossible to reconcile these two truths. This is why the Cross of Jesus is often spoken of in terms of contradictions. These two realities would seem to be mutually exclusive and yet they are not. In a mysterious way, governed by the love of God, Jesus turns the ultimate defeat— death—into the most magnificent of victories, our salvation, and ultimately His resurrection.

What does this mean for us? Alphonsus Ligouri suggests that we meditate on the cross every day. If we ask ourselves often enough, “What happened when Jesus died on the Cross?” then maybe we will begin to understand the wonder and magnificence of this quintessentially Christian reality.

In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul mentions that the Cross of Jesus is folly to the Greeks (intellectually) and a scandal to the Jews (spiritually), so it seems that Jesus fails. However, the reality is that the Cross is the ultimate victory. Just when it seems that the devil, sin, and death have prevailed, Jesus turns the tables on them and rises from death to new life.

This imagery is important to us as Christians as it describes for us the process of salvation. We die (in baptism) with Jesus on the Cross so that our sins are forgiven, and then we rise with Him (emerge from the waters of baptism) to new life. The symbolism and imagery is stark and prophetic. Let us deepen our understanding of them and so grow in our capacity to live the truth of our salvation every day. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

---------- REFLECTION QUESTIONS ----------

How do you understand the death and resurrection of Jesus? Do you need to reflect upon it more?

Jesus, help me to grow in my understanding and experience of the gift of salvation. May I always know the dynamism of power of the Cross at work in my life. Amen.

Today, I pray for: ___________________________