HOMILY FOR THE FEAST OF THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS

Numbers 21:4-9; Psalm 75; Philippians 2:6-11; John 3:13-17

 

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrates two historical events: (1.) The discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, the mother of the Emperor Constantine, in 320 under the temple of Venus in Jerusalem, and the dedication in 335 of the basilica and shrine built on Calvary by Constantine, which mark the site of the Crucifixion. (2.) The celebration and commemoration of Christ death on the Cross and His Resurrection, through which death was defeated.  The Gospel illustrating this theme presents us with a beautiful summary of the first and second readings. It tells us that Jesus would be raised high, just as Moses raised the serpent, so that all peoples may be saved and be brought to eternal life. In the Cross is our salvation and the salvation of all peoples and it is this redemption which we celebrate today. The Psalm of today is a reminder never to forget the deeds of the Lord. Some have not just forgotten about the cross; they have equally relegated its place in the Christian faith. As we commemorate and celebrate the triumph of the cross may we spread faith, hope and love everywhere. God bless you!

 

The Old Rugged Cross

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross
The emblem of suffering and shame
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
And I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true
It’s shame and reproach gladly bear
Then he’ll call me someday to my home far away
Where his glory forever I’ll share