I heard a song on Christian radio this morning that talked about the Cross beckoning us. Wow, this described just how I feel as we move closer to Lent...A week from today!
The Cross really does beckon us, reminding us of many things but ultimately that this earth is not our home.
My heart is always heavy this time of year as I remember most vividly, the death of my late husband who was tragically killed on Good Friday. If you've ever lost a loved one, you know that the death anniversary is forever the most difficult time of year, regardless of the years that have passed. I can feel my physical mind and body bracing itself to remember as we slowly approach "that time." There are still moments, after 18 years, that the painful memory is unbearable...
The Cross beckons me.
I think it can be a similar feeling as we approach Lent, maybe more for some than others, I'm not really sure. I do know that it can be a somber time of reflection. Our hearts and minds prepare for difficult images and stories of the murderous death of Our Savior. It is a stark reminder that life will end for all of us, here on earth.
The Cross beckons us.
There are many things spinning around my head as we move into Ash Wednesday. I yearn to quiet myself and unplug from the noise of the Internet, I am eager to press the reset button and get back to more intimate prayer, and I am looking forward to preparing our Domestic Church for a new liturgical season. Still there is one thing I desire more than anything else...
... That is re-fixing my gaze on the Cross.
The Cross is beckoning...
For it is casting our eyes on the Crucifix that we find answers, comfort and instant truth;
Mercy was designed right there for all of us, no exceptions;
Love raised up in glory;
Life ending on this earth turned the key to open the gates of heaven;
Sorrows became the bridge to joy;
Suffering became strength for the journey home;
The Cross beckons.
Despite any pain we might feel or the struggles we carry inside, it is certain that there will be reason to rejoice, if only we embrace the instrument of our salvation. Lent is the perfect time to do this and I'm looking forward to it!
Let us stretch out our arms and surrender...
The Cross beckons.
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Thank you for the gentle reminder. I think I'll go to adoration tonight. You've given me so much to think about.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to Lent!
Thank you for your lovely comment, Kara. The Cross never fails to give us so much to think about! I pray you have a blessed Lenten journey+++
DeleteDear Tiffany,
ReplyDeleteYou always inspire me when you write these posts. Thank you and may I add my prayers for you this Lenten season.
God Bless
Gae
Dear Gae~Prayers are always such a great gift...Thank you so much! God Bless your Lenten journey as well:)
ReplyDeleteI agree with Gae... your posts are inspiring. Prayers for the repose of your late husband's soul and prayers for you during this difficult time... and prayers for your husband who must be a remarkable man to lovingly see you through this each year. May God bless you both! Peace and love, Annita +JMJ+
ReplyDeleteLast year at this time I was such a dried out log...but found that is where He needed me. I will keep you in my deepest prayers this lent. Your journey toward Good Friday is such a hard one. Peace.
ReplyDelete@Annita and Patty~Thank you for your prayers as well:)
ReplyDeleteOh, Tiffany--I've never read your story. I didn't know why you named this blog what you did. Thank you so much for linking your story. It's truly your story. It has defined you into the grace-filled woman you are today. Pain does that, don't you think? Suffering does that. That's the good.
ReplyDeletePrayers for you as you remember and even relive that terrible time in your life.
Oh Yes,Jamie, I agree with you...pain definitely does that. I am grateful for my suffering for that very reason. My spiritual gain is all due to the Cross. What blessings and great gifts that trials can bring in this way. Thank you for speaking my language;) Mostly, thank you for your prayers. They are gratefully appreciated! God Bless your Lenten journey with that sweet family of yours.
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