Homily: Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross
Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross (John 3:13-17) “What Would I Die For?”
Why was Jesus crucified? How was this an act of love? These are questions that Theologians have debated for centuries. Despite what we may think, there is no definitive answers. There are only theories. Afterall, who can know the mind of God?
One theory would be that Jesus died as a reparation for the sins of the world. The only way to satisfy the need for justice was for the Son of God to come and sacrifice himself on the cross for the sake of humanity. This is the most prevalent explanation, but it is somewhat disconcerting.
Another explanation is that Jesus came to the world to teach us how to live. Jesus came to show us what God is really like. He taught the world about, forgiveness, love of enemies, care for the poor, redemption, Eucharist and a host of other things, too numerous to list. But in his biggest lesson was that taught us that we must hold on to moral principles at all costs, even if it means our very life.
It was reminded once that Jesus could have saved his life if he would have just compromised or if he would have run away. He had that option up until Holy Thursday night. He had escaped death several times before. But at a certain time, he decided that it was time to be courageous.
One great question that we all could ask ourselves is whether we have something we would be willing to die for. Most of us would probably say we would be willing to give our life for our family. But do we really know until the moment of truth comes.
We could say that Jesus died protecting his family. He told the soldiers who arrested him to let his apostles go. He did not implicate anyone else even though the authorities probably would have willingly crucified others. How inspiring it is for someone to absorb punishment in the name of others. Too often we have those in leadership blaming everyone else for their failures. Jesus truly gave us an example of unselfish love when he died on the cross.
1. What cause would I be willing to die for? Have I ever been faced with that choice?
2. We die in big and small ways? How have I died to myself to help others?
Dear Parishioners,
I have written to you on several occasions about the need to call us when someone is in the hospital or nursing home. Since COVID the hospitals have been less concerned about reporting the religious affiliation of patients to churches. This makes it very difficult for us to minister those who are ill.
If you have a loved one who is very ill, and you want them to be visited please call our office. We will certainly try to see them. We would like everyone to receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick who would like to have it and to receive communion if they desire it.
May Our Lady of Peace protect the innocent today.
Fr. Mark