A WORD FROM THE PASTOR

Crosses are Wings

A recurring theme that runs in the liturgies of Lent is ‘Turning to God.’ It’s imposed through various terms and expressions. I would like to draw your attention to realize that it is important to turn to God in this season of Lent.

Turning our hearts to God is the first step on our journey to full life, but turning alone is not enough. We must choose God, preferring him to all other things. Choosing is willing. Our will is ever free. It is like an engine in a car; it can’t steer, but needs someone to direct it. In the same way, to choose God you must direct your will to God. So, God urges us, “This day, I have set before you, life and death… choose life that you and your descendants may live (Deut 30:19).

When we choose God, we choose life, the life God himself lives. Many people try all sorts of things but they are not satisfied. They chase after this or that, but remain unsatisfied. Why? Because they cannot be fully satisfied with things that change. In our own time, we see people who become content with temporary things, but then wind up in confusion, lacking direction as they are thrown into situations where it is impossible to tell good from evil. Finally they end up in ‘nervous breakdown’ – a complete breakdown in life. Some who are away from the Church need to realize their heart’s yearnings can only be satisfied if they possess God who alone is unchangeable.

We also should note that our efforts to turn to God and choose him above all else will bring us face to face with difficulties, trials and sacrifices. Jesus said, “One who wants to follow me, take up your cross daily and follow me” (Lk 9:23). Difficulties and renunciations are necessary and beneficial to us; without them, progress towards God is impossible. In any case, no one in the world is exempt from his daily cross.

Aristotle said, “He who suffers no trial is either God or a beast.” Our crosses are means to countless blessings. Just as birds carry wings, yet the wings carry the bird, so the cross lifts up those who carry their cross and brings them safely to their destiny.