RBWords

     Although this feast is a commemoration of the discovery of what is considered to be the actual cross on which Jesus was crucified, it is meant to spark meditation on the broader significance of Jesus' death.  For quite a long time after Jesus died, the cross was not featured in Christian iconography.  Scholars believe that this was because Jesus' manner of death was considered humiliating.  Crucifixion was the worst form of punishment the Romans inflicted and was reserved for criminals and terrorists.  It took awhile for the Christian community to adopt such a thing as a primary symbol of faith.  It was more exalting to think of the resurrection!

     I have found it helpful to consider the difference between a cross and a crucifix.  The crucifix focuses on the person of Jesus and his sufferings on our behalf.  A cross refers more to all of us who are baptized Christians and the challenges that our baptism offers.  Jesus told (and tells now) his disciples that discipleship means picking up the cross and following after him.  A simple cross is an invitation and a challenge.  A crucifix is a reminder of the ultimate love and solidarity of God with us in all forms of suffering.  

     Owning a sliver from the "true cross" is a privilege, but it is meant to go beyond being a sacred object to being a way of life that proclaims the One who died on it for us.  AMEN