This week, we reflect on the triumph of the cross on which Jesus died. Moses, while leading the Israelites through the desert, has an image that foreshadows the cross. The people are being bitten by serpents and dying, and Moses appeals to God for help. God provides a solution: a bronze serpent on top of a standard that resembles a cross. If anyone was bitten by a serpent, all they had to do
was look at the symbol, and they would be healed. Now, we are invited to gaze at Jesus on the cross to have the fullness of life, too.
How strange it seems that the cross, an instrument of such torture, humiliation, agony and death, should be the symbol of victory over evil. Jesus was crucified because of the fear and jealousy of those seeking to hold onto their own power, position and privileges. What a struggle it was for Jesus. We
recall how he agonised in the Garden of Gethsemane on the night of his arrest, saying to the disciples, “My soul is sorrowful until death”, and in prayer, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass me by.” (Matthew 26:38,39) And again on the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:47)
Why did Jesus, the Son of God, allow this to happen? The answer is simply love! Jesus’ mission was to bring the message of
God’s great love to the whole world. There is no separation between the God of love, our Creator, and God’s creation. Jesus tells us by example and word that we are free to be one with a faithful, compassionate and present God who loves us unconditionally. “Abide in me, as I abide in you.” (John 15:4) That love is expressed in Jesus’ life, passion and death on the cross. After Jesus’ gift of love on the cross, God brings him to glory in the resurrection, and so the cross becomes a sign of
triumph!
Will I, today, look up at Jesus crucified on the cross and recognise his deepest love? How will I respond?
Reflections by Kath Knowles
