Every day of Lent, Bishop Edward Malesic writes a Scripture reflection for the faithful. Follow the bishop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Click HERE for the readings.
Looking at Jesus on the cross gives us tremendous comfort. Really, it’s a mystery of God’s grace – that somehow by looking at God’s Son on a cross, we find peace and strength in our own struggles.
How often have I come into a hospital room, or visited a person who is near death, and found them clutching onto the crucifix at the end of a rosary or looking at the cross hanging on the wall in front of them.
Jesus himself knew this already – that his death would give us a special hope in overcoming our own difficulties. He said, "When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I AM.” This was an obvious reference to his being lifted up on the cross of crucifixion for all to see. It was the sign of just how much God was willing to love us – unto death itself.
When we see God’s love for us – a love that is willing to die for us – then we realize that Jesus is the outpouring of God’s love. We find love on the cross. We find God on the cross.
Whenever you doubt God’s love for you. Find a crucifix and look at it, even hold it, and know that God does love you.
Remember that Jesus, who died on the cross, rose from the dead – and still loves you as your Lord and your savior.