We’re in the second half of Ordinary Time, and sure enough, the Church brings us back to center: the Cross. It is not by chance that the Exaltation of the Cross is a central September feast. The whole of Ordinary Time is a formation in discipleship flowing from the Cross and Resurrection. So, what are the formation points for us this month?
First, we’re reminded that we can’t be part-time disciples. We need full-time resolve. Then we are given the powerful parable of the Prodigal Son, to remind us that we are to be Reconcilers wherever our families, communities, work, or retirement take us. Then the last two Sundays make sure we understand where true riches lie…inwardly and outwardly in our public lives.
But we are not to lose sight of the Cross. Why? Because the Cross is the fullness of revelation about God and ourselves. About God, because nowhere, in any other religion, is God revealed as hanging on a tree, dying. Here the hidden God is revealed through the Word, joined to our humanity as a self-sacrificing Lover. More, we are not merely told. We are shown, by life-blood being poured out in a Spirit-burst upon the unsuspecting world. Among all the world religions, this is radical revelation.
But we too are revealed. We are tortured, tormented, broken, scourged, ridiculed, thirsty, abandoned and abused. And where is God while we struggle? There…in our midst. Look at the human form of your brother and sister. There…that’s where God is. The radical revelation is complete. The union finalized. God is not safe in heaven. God is wherever we are.
“We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you,
For by your holy Cross you have redeemed the world.’
It’s shocking.
It turns everything upside down.
Where is the majesty, the power, the splendor, the glory?
Head mocked for its hopes, plans, and dreams…
Hands nailed so they can’t help…
Feet fastened so they can’t come running…
Heart open like a window without shutters,
where I can run and hide anytime.
No condemnation?
No.
No condemnation.
Amen.
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