The Message of the Cross

The Message of the Cross

August 31, 2012

Friday of the Twenty-first Week in Ordinary Time

By Melanie Rigney

Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the Gospel, and not with the wisdom of human eloquence, so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its meaning. The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:17-18)

The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. (Psalms 33:5)

(After telling the disciples the parable of the foolish virgins, Jesus said:) “Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” (Matthew 25:13)

Piety

Lord, You are good beyond my poor power to comprehend. Thank you. Thank you.

Study

What do you see as the message of the cross?

Is it that we have to get through our own crucifixion to get to our resurrection, the crucifixion of pride, selfishness, fear, anger, envy, and the rest?

Is it this life is hard, really hard, and no matter how much love we are surrounded by from our family and friends, we each end up on that cross alone?

Is it that we were worthless worms whom Christ redeemed, even though we did absolutely nothing to deserve such a great gift?

Or is it that God can’t help himself and the way he just loves us so darn much, and the cross provides a tangible, visible way for us to recognize that?

Or is it something else entirely?

Think about it a little, but don’t waste too much time contemplating this. Get out there and preach. You don’t know how much time you’ve got left here. Stay awake.

Action

The 135th Women’s Cursillo Weekend at San Damiano is two weeks away. Have you started writing your palanca… and checking in one last time with potential babe chicks? Get more information at www.arlingtoncursillo.org.