Angels glory in the Cross; Angels: Day 195

The cross was the most shameful method of execution the ancient world could think of. But angels glory in the Cross of Christ, says St. Cyril of Jerusalem, because it was the instrument of our salvation.

We can never get tired of hearing about our crowned Lord—and least of all in this most holy Golgotha. For while others only hear, we can see and touch as well.

Let no one be tired! Take your armor against your adversaries in the cause of the Cross itself. Set up the faith of the Cross as a trophy against the deniers. When you’re going to argue with unbelievers about the Cross of Christ, first make the sign of Christ’s Cross with your hand—the denier will be silent.

Don’t be ashamed to confess the Cross. Angels glory in it: they say, “We know that you seek Jesus who was crucified” (Matt. 28:5). Angel! Couldn’t you have said, “I know you seek my Master”? No: he says boldly, “I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.” The Cross is a crown, not a dishonor. –St. Cyril of Jerusalem, Catechetical Lecture 13, 22

IN GOD’S PRESENCE, CONSIDER . . .

Is the Sign of the Cross a regular part of my life? Or am I sometimes ashamed to acknowledge in public the sign that the angels glory in?

CLOSING PRAYER

Holy angels, the sign of Christ’s crucifixion is your glory. Teach me to make it my glory as well, so that I may never be ashamed to acknowledge Jesus who was crucified.

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