REDEMPTIVE POWER OF THE CROSS

Divine Appeal Reflection - 146

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 146:  "I have saved the world through suffering on the cross. Pray and do penance for souls."

 The Cross of Christ is the supreme symbol of God's infinite love and mercy, through which our Adorable Jesus redeemed humanity. In His death, He was victorious over sin and death so that He might deliver the world from the power of the devil. In this vein, through the Cross , Jesus exemplified His unending love for mankind and provided the roadmap to eternal life for anyone who believes in Him. True and full redemption, along with the hope of glory, are found in the Cross of Christ. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the Cross is Christ's singular sacrifice, inviting all humanity to partake in His Paschal Mystery (cf. CCC 618) by embracing their own crosses. Not only have we received grace, but we also participate in Christ's redemptive work. 

Our Adorable Jesus bore the burden of transcending humanity through His Passion . The Cross remains the source of grace for all. The cross holds a special place in the Christian home. It is a visible symbol of God's presence and love. Families are invited to honor the Holy Cross by placing it prominently in their homes. This practice serves as a daily reminder of the sacrificial love of our Adorable Jesus. It also encourages family members to live lives of faith, prayer, and charity. The home is the place where faith is nurtured and passed on to the next generation (cf. CCC 1657). Placing the cross at the center of family life is a declaration of faith in Christ's victory over sin and death and invites His grace to purify the home.

Furthermore, the profound mystery of redemptive suffering is revealed by the Cross. To save souls, Jesus urges us to connect our suffering and sacrifices with His, transforming them into acts of mercy and love. St. Paul addresses this issue when he states that, for the benefit of His body, the Church, our sufferings make up for what Christ's sufferings lacked (cf. Colossians 1:24). Even though Jesus made a perfect and comprehensive sacrifice, He mercifully allows us to partake in His atoning work through our selfless deeds, penance, and prayers. Pope St. John Paul II emphasized that when suffering is joined with the Cross, it becomes a source of grace and a pathway to holiness for everyone in the world (cf. Salvifici Doloris, 19). May every family place the Cross at the center of their lives, drawing strength, hope, and love from this sacred mystery of redemption.

Prayer

Oh , our Adorable Jesus, we bow before Your Holy Cross, the source of our redemption and hope. Transform our hearts with Your grace, teach us to embrace sacrifices with love, and guide us in bringing souls to You. May Your mercy and love reign in us now and forever.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.