cross
[noun]
A figure formed by two bars crossing each other. In faith, a cross is a physical symbol of Jesus’s sacrifice. When Catholics make the sign of the cross, we do it to remember the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus—and the triumph of God’s endless love and mercy.
Jesus experienced pain. He understood loneliness. He endured betrayal and injustice. And, he also knew God’s unconditional love. He trusted in God’s mercy and faithfulness. That is why the cross upon which he was crucified has come to symbolize both the suffering of the world and the redemption of the world.
It is impossible to avoid suffering. Like Jesus, we are invited to see and experience the presence of God’s love in the midst of our pain. The unexpected kindness of a stranger, a pink-streaked sky at dawn, the safe embrace of an old friend—grace and mercy take many forms. The more we let God’s love enter our hearts and change us, the more we allow God to carry our crosses with us.
Dear God,
Every time I see you in the cross I am reminded of Your love for me, for all of us. I feel Your love, care and tenderness drawing me near, inviting me to let go of my own cross to let you carry it for me. Thank you for showing me your grace and mercy and for inviting me to trust in You every day. Amen.
How do you invite Jesus into your life everyday?
