Day 29 - CROSS

The theme for the photo today is "cross". The cross is a very important symbol in the Catholic faith, but what makes it so important?

The interesting thing about the cross is that it really was not origiannly intended to be a religious symbol. It was a way to crucify criminals, but the day that Jesus died on the cross, it became one of the most important symbols of the catholic church. The cross reminds us of the sacrifice that Jesus made for our sins. His crucifixion is such an important focus of Lent which is why now more than ever we need to remember how special the cross is.

There are a few ways we encounter the cross in our daily lives.

First, we make the sign of the cross. This sign reminds us of the Holy Trinity; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as well as Jesus' crucifixion. We must remember the idea that God is three persons that together make up God. This idea is one of the most difficult ideas to explain because it is not something we can fully understand as human beings. This is why it is called faith. The sign of the cross reminds us, especially before we pray, that we are addressing Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Second, we encounter the cross in a crucifix. This version of the cross is a visual representation of Jesus crucifixion. One of my favorite memories from my church in San Diego was the tradition of removing the crucifix hanging over the altar during Lent. Then, on Easter, the crucifix would return, just like Jesus. It is something that took me years to catch on to, but once I did I thought it was such a moving idea. This tradition reminds us that we are awaiting the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Third, the three crosses made before the Gospel is read. During this gesture over our forehead, lips, and heart we open ourselves to Christ's word to be in our thoughts, in our words, and in our heart. This reminds us to not only listen to the Gospel, but utilize the teachings in our everyday lives. It is one thing to attend mass and say that you are Catholic, but in order to grow in the faith you must incorporate Christ's word into your actions.

The cross is a beautiful symbol that can easily become automatic. Because of this we must focus on what the cross means everytime we see or sign the cross.

#cross