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February 25, 2004
The Way of the Cross
A post from Brian: Lent is here! For the next forty days we will be walking in the shadow of Christ as we make our way toward Calvary. Jesus said, “…whoever does not take up his cross and follows after me is not worthy of me.” (Mt. 10:38).
Every time I reflect or meditate upon the crucifixion I am always drawn to the outstretched arms of Our Lord. His outstretched arms remind me of what someone looks like right before they give a hug. A hug or embrace is not only a symbol of friendship, but also one of intimacy. It is an expression that invites and calls us into personal contact with another.
Our Lord’s outstretched arms on the cross reflect the depth of His love for each of us. He pines and yearns for every heart and soul throughout the world to come to Him. And yet with hands fastened to the cross, He will never force Himself upon us. Jesus only invites and waits patiently for someone to respond to His call of love and intimacy.
With outstretched arms Jesus perfectly demonstrates how each one of us is called to respond to our neighbor. Our arms are not to be lowered resting at our sides, nor are they to be crossed over resting upon our chest. Our arms are to be stretched out ready and willing to welcome and to embrace. As Christ welcomes the stranger, the sinner, the saint and the unbeliever we too are called to welcome them, with arms OUTSTRETCHED.
I believe Lent is a time to make sacrifices, but it also is a time to grow in love. Perhaps we can use this Lent to focus on Jesus crucified and recognize our call to love our neighbor. I pray that the crucifixion will inspire you to grow in charity and reach out to others, no matter who they are, with a loving embrace.
Have a blessed Lent!
Posted by bobbi at February 25, 2004 3:04 PM
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