Yesterday, Sunday, September 14, was the feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, also known as the Triumph of the Cross. With the events of the Good Friday and the Easter Sunday, Jesus transformed the symbol of the Cross, from hate to love. Today for us Christians, the Cross is a symbol of love. Jesus says that God loves the world that He sent his son to save it and not to destroy it.
Following the feast of the Triumph of the Cross, is the memorial of the Our Lady of Sorrows. This memorial is a reminder of the sacrifice of Mary for our salvation. As Simeon says to Mary “a sword will pierce your heart.”
So, we are reminded by the three readings of the power of prayer and love.
In the first reading, (I Timothy 2: 1-8) Paul tells Timothy to pray for everyone, even leaders.
The psalmist cries out to God as a shepherd who carries His people.
In the Gospel, (John 19:25-17) a Roman soldier shows great trust in Jesus.
These readings are a stack reminder of how faith is lived out in daily life.
Prayer is not only for ourselves but for all people. Trust is shown not by status or power but by humility before God. Strength comes when we place our hope in the Lord.
May we open our hearts to love and cherish all the blessings we receive from our good and loving God.
Have a wonderful Week
