The Cross: Our Strength and Triumph on the Journey of Great Lent
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The Church presents the precious and life-giving Cross of Christ as we reach the midpoint of Great Lent. This Sunday serves as a moment of encouragement, reminding us of the reasons we are fasting, praying, and striving for repentance. The Cross symbolizes hope, empowering us to continue our journey toward Holy Pascha.
Embrace our Cross
Our Lord Jesus Christ says, “Whoever wishes to follow Me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me” (Mark 8:34).
This embodies the essence of the Christian life. We are called to embrace our crosses—our struggles, sufferings, and sacrifices—while following Christ with humility and love. Just as He bore His Cross for our salvation, we, too, must carry our burdens in faith, trusting in God’s grace.
The Cross as Strength and Salvation
The Holy Fathers teach us that the Cross is more than a symbol; it is power, victory, and the gateway to eternal life.
St. John Chrysostom states: “The Cross is the key to Paradise, the strength of the faithful, the staff of the righteous, and the hope of sinners.”
St. Basil the Great reminds us: “By the sign of the Cross, demons flee, sickness is driven away, and the power of the enemy is destroyed.”
These words remind us that the Cross is not a burden but a source of divine strength. When we make the sign of the Cross, we invoke God’s power to protect, heal, and sustain us.
The Cross in Our Daily Lives
We often feel weak, discouraged, or overwhelmed by our daily struggles. This Sunday invites us to renew our strength by turning to the Cross. Instead of avoiding difficulties, we embrace them with patience and faith.
As St. Maximus the Confessor teaches: “The Cross is the way of life, for Christ reconciled heaven and earth by it.”
Through every challenge—whether in our families, workplaces, or spiritual lives—the Cross teaches us perseverance and trust in God’s plan.
As we stand at the midpoint of Lent, let us not grow weary. The journey may be difficult, but the Cross reminds us that victory is near. Let us continue with renewed zeal, lifting our hearts to God in prayer, partaking in the Holy Mysteries, and serving others in love.
Let us never be ashamed of the Cross, for as St. Cyril of Jerusalem says: “Let us not be ashamed of the Cross of Christ but rather glory in it; for the message of the Cross represents a victory over the enemy.”
May the power of the Holy Cross inspire us all as we move forward to embrace the joy of the Resurrection!
