Find the full text of the homily here.
Questions for Reflection
- Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” An extension of that question is this: What does the symbol of the cross mean to you? Is it protection? A badge? A reminder? A scandal? A symbol of status? A symbol of humility? What does it mean to you?
- What pain in your life are you being called to acknowledge? What does it mean to take it up and follow Jesus?
- What pain in the world are you being called to acknowledge? What does it mean to walk beside those in pain as they carry their cross?
Resources for Further Reflection
Richard Rohr is a Franciscan, Catholic Priest who writes a lot about spirituality and the Franciscan tradition. In this book, Rohr writes about how the notion of Christ is much bigger than we often recognize. He also spends some time talking about the cross and the crucifixion. In chapter twelve he writes a beautiful meditation about the cross as the place to acknowledge our suffering and be seen by God.
Song: “Come, All Who Are Weary” by the Porter’s Gate
The same Jesus who said, “Take up your cross and follow me” is the one who said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). This week’s sermon has really been a wrestling of the tension between these two sayings of Jesus. What if they aren’t so opposite as they seem? Listen to this song from my favorite music group and let the words of Jesus wash over you.
Religious Jewelry: Tau Franciscan Cross Necklace
Here is an example of a Franciscan cross similar to the one we used on our pilgrimage. If you don’t have a cross necklace, perhaps its time to get a simple one like this to remember that your pain is seen by God.
Thoughts on Faith 