Embracing the Significance of the Cross During Lent

As we journey through the season of Lent, we are invited to reflect deeply on the profound significance of the cross of Jesus Christ. Thomas á Kempis beautifully encapsulates the timeless truth about the cross in his quote: "All that matters is the cross and dying on that cross: there is no other way to life and real inward peace except the way of the holy cross, and of daily dying to self." These words remind us that the cross holds the key to life, peace, and the renewal of self.

The cross stands as a symbol of sacrifice, redemption, and ultimate love. During Lent, we are called to embrace the way of the holy cross, understanding that it leads us not only to the foot of the cross but to the longed-for goal of a wholly restored life. It beckons us to daily die to our selfish desires and worldly inclinations, paving the way for a deeper connection with God and a renewed sense of purpose.

Kempis's assertion that the cross is ever present and inescapable echoes the unavoidable nature of our own crosses in life. Whether they manifest as personal struggles, challenges, or sacrifices, the crosses we bear are inherent to our human experience. The choice lies in how we carry them. If we bear our crosses with gladness, we discover that they, in turn, carry us, leading us towards the fulfillment of our spiritual aspirations. However, should we carry them grudgingly, we risk turning them into burdens that weigh us down, hindering our journey.

Moreover, Kempis's words caution against discarding or avoiding our crosses. Such actions only lead to the discovery of new crosses, potentially heavier than the ones we abandoned. The path of avoidance denies us the opportunity for growth, resilience, and the deepening of our faith. Instead, embracing our crosses with faith and fortitude opens the door to transformation and spiritual renewal.

In the season of Lent, as we reflect on the significance of the cross, let us heed Kempis's wisdom and embrace the way of the holy cross. May we carry our crosses with a spirit of gladness and willingness, trusting that they lead us closer to the source of life and inward peace. As we journey through this sacred season, may the cross of Jesus Christ become a symbol of hope, renewal, and the path to our desired spiritual destination.