+ Our feast today is about the very instrument of wood that was our Savior's triumph and glory. He longed for the moment when he would be sacrificed on it voluntarily: this would be his "hour" of triumph over death, darkness and hatred. And so, precious is that tree of death that became the tree of life for us all: without the cross we would never escape sin, we would live in sin always, and die in sin surely – with no chance of reward even for our good deeds.
The first reading from the book of numbers foretells how looking up at Christ Crucified would bring salvation to the one who does it with faith, and hope and charity in the heart; and with the willingness to be likewise transformed into an instrument of healing, love and mercy towards other people!
If Jesus so humbled himself by leaving his divinity behind and taking on the form of a slave, coming in human likeness, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross – and because he was highly exalted by God for doing this: when we humble ourselves and obediently accept the mission in life that God has given us, which might include all kinds of "deaths" great and small in our lifetimes – then we too shall triumph with him; and we too shall receive the same glory!
This is a truly amazing reality!
And so today we proclaim: Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim, til all the world adore his Sacred Name!
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