Readings:
Numbers 21:4-9
Psalm 78:1-2,34-38
John 3:13-17
Why exalt the Cross?
From history, the cross was an instrument of torture. People were executed and sentenced to death by being nailed to a cross, similar to the capital punishment in Nigeria so many years ago when criminals were sentenced to face a firing squad. Crucifixion was reserved for the worst criminals. But something very interesting and miraculous happened when Jesus was crucified. The symbol of torture became the symbol of victory because Jesus died on that Cross, was taken down from the Cross, was laid in a tomb and three days later, He rose to life and that signified His defeat and power over death. He transformed the Cross from a symbol of death into a sign of victory over sin, Satan and eternal death. That is why we still honour it today. We display it in our churches, we place them in our homes. In the Cross, we see a vivid sign of our own victories over the different situations which life will throw at us. St Augustine will say, “We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you; because by your cross you have redeemed the world.”
In our daily lives, we go through challenges, horrific and traumatic situations; things that cause us to ask, “Is there really a God? Why isn’t He doing anything?” It does not help that some people push the idea that with the Cross, all sorrow, pain and misfortune is gone and we do not need to talk about them because Christ died for all our sins and we now have victory. True as this is, it does not eliminate the reality that people suffer; people who are doing their best to worship God, really suffer and they often wait for some form of respite without finding any. So, what do you say to such persons?
It is more realistic to say that we might suffer but if we bear that suffering with Christ (knowing that He suffered for us) that helps us to bear pain with the hope that, eventually, it will end in victory, it will pay off in salvation. Some problems will remain with us till death but eternal life and salvation will redeem all that we have lost or endured. In the Cross, we find hope and the knowledge that all our experiences (good and bad) will transform us into better versions of ourselves.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Lord, I place myself in your hands.
Lord, I place all my worries and cares into your hands.
Lord, help me to rise above the trauma and sufferings I endure.
Lord, help me to carry my burdens with You.
Lord, let your victory on the Cross heal me and grant me eternal life. Amen.
You shall be victorious over all the challenges and difficulties in your life. By the Cross of Christ, you shall prevail.
You are victorious my Cross of Christ. Amen.
Comments