CATHOLICS AND THE CROSS

The cross is a symbol of salvation and attached to it is a figure of suffering. There cannot be a perfect Christian living without a constant reminder of the cross. Jesus says this to all Christians about the cross: The Christian life cannot in any way be devoid of the cross. Christ himself carried His cross to Calvary, suffered death before He rose to glory.

As Catholics, Christ did not in anyway promise us a life free of persecution and challenges in the form of pain and suffering, He rather admonished His followers to pick up their individual crosses and follow Him and also to endure all trails and persecutions. (Cf. Jn 16: 33). Prosperity preachers in our today world overlook the value of the cross and human suffering in achieving a greater good the salvation of our souls.

Sickness, broken relationships and insufficient resources are among sources of pain and suffering. Some are by chance, like an auto accident that maims us or a cancer that cripples our loved ones or even takes their live. Some are by neglect, such as our failure to prepare for times of pressure. Some are by design, where we willingly take on enormous responsibilities in order to achieve some goal. Some are by sin, where we willingly go against God's commands and then must suffer the consequences. Whatever the source, we all feel the dark shadow of suffering.

Instead of denying or pretending that our crosses are not there, our best bet as Catholics is to acknowledge and accept the pains, challenges and sufferings that we must bear and seek hope and solace in His promise to help us bear it all.

The cross as expressed in discomforts, afflictions, suffering, unhappiness, pains, trails, difficulties and persecutions are used to strengthen, restore and establish the children of God, who humbly yield themselves to it. The Bible testifies: “But after you have suffered a little while, the God of grace, who calls you to share His eternal glory in union with Christ, will himself perfect you and give you firmness, strength, and a sure foundation. (Cf. 1 Peter 5: 10).