How do we Catholics treat the cross of being called to have a large family? When we see a large family pass by, do we look on them with pity and say to others, "What a burden"? (Mal 1:13) What are our thoughts about those who suffer from Alzheimer's, Down's Syndrome, mental and emotional disabilities, or physical handicaps? How do we respond when we see an overburdened priest, religious brother, or sister? Do we tell others that the cross of celibacy, loneliness, and poverty isn't worth the trouble?
If our response to those who carry these crosses is "What a burden," we subtly tell the world that the cross of Jesus is something to be avoided, not a means of triumph. We belittle the cross rather than exalt it.
Have you abased the cross of Jesus in any way? Repent! Let's revere the crosses of others in a way that shows the world that we are not ashamed of the cross of Christ Jesus (Rm 1:16; Mk 8:38). Lift high the cross of Christ! (see Jn 8:28) Through it, Jesus will draw all men and women to Himself (Jn 12:32).
| PRAYER: | Father, may I "speak of nothing but Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (1 Cor 2:2). |
| PROMISE: | "God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him." –Jn 3:17 |
| PRAISE: | "We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You, because by Your holy cross You have redeemed the world" (St. Francis of Assisi). |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College