14 Sep
Mon
EXALTATION of the Holy Cross
Num. 21:4b-9
Ps. 77(78):1-2,34-35,36-37,38
Phil. 2:6-11
Jn. 3:13-17
(Ps Wk IV)
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Many of the early Christians did not have a positive image of the cross. It was a cruel and humiliating form of execution, and there was a great deal of shame attached to it. But John invites his readers to look beyond outward appearance. In a wonderful pun (only in the original Greek) one word means both exaltation and lifting up. In other words, what most people would view with horroer is actually something glorious when seen through the eyes of God. It is all about love: Jesus came into the world not to condemn but to save - to offer us the cure for our 'poison' as in the story from Numbers. He cures us from the fear, selfishness, violence, and negativity that lead to spiritual death, and he offers us eternal life in its place.

All of this Jesus did willnigly and his motivation was compassion. He let go of everything; he even laid aside his divine privileges and became not only human but in the form of a slave. Because of his emptying of self, his compassion, and his obedience to God he was exalted and given both power and honour. There is only one human sin: self. There is only one cure: by giving of ourselves. By giving ourselves away, we do not lose anything but selfishness, and we will be spiritually empowered. Rather than an object of worship the cross is constant reminder of the life of Jesus - and the life we are to imitate - of loving and humble service to others. We too can be lifted up or exalted - we are given many opportunities each day.




Lord, help me to be a person for others.




DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That opportunities for education and employment may increase for all young people.
Elaboration

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