Today’s Lenten Reading is from Catholic theologian Thomas Howard. In his essay simply entitle “The Crucifix” Howard calls on believers to avoid bypassing the cross. The anticipation of Easter is rooted in the reality and truth of the Resurrection. However, Howard appropriately warns us to not bypass the cross or reduce the suffering to a passing aspect just before the Resurrection. We must see the suffering of savior. We must know the reality of our sins, the sins of the whole world, and the pain of Christ on the cross. In that pain is also the pain of people in the past and in the present and even the future pain and travails of people all around the world. Let us see Christ on the cross, let us hear Him cry, and let us hear Him proclaim forgiveness. Let us see the pain all around us and know that Christ not only relates but comforts and encourages.
Grace and peace