Lent 15 - The Message of the Cross

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1 Corinthians 1:18-25

Have you ever found yourself reading a story about Jesus and being confused or unsure about something that Jesus said?

Perhaps you wonder, "why would Jesus ask someone to give away everything they own?" or "how on earth am I supposed to love my worst enemies, even the people who have hurt me the most?" or "why does Jesus not stand up and fight for himself, even when he is sentenced to death?"

I think that these feelings of shock that we have when we read Jesus' story is what Paul talks about in Corinthians when he says that the message of the cross is foolishness to those who do not understand.

What I have found is that once my initial shock wears off and I am willing to put into practice what Jesus has said and lived, it is then that I discover the wisdom in Jesus' words, even though I did not understand it at first. 

When I begin giving away my possessions, I discover that I am blessed by helping those in need and I rely less on my possessions for my happiness. When I try to love my enemies and those who believe differently to me, I find an inner peace that isn't bothered by what they do or say. When I choose a life of peace, I discover that violence isn't the only way to deal with issues, even though it might seem like the easiest solution.

It is when we begin to live into the words that Jesus preached that we truly begin to understand the wisdom in Jesus' teachings. "The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."

Prayer: Lord Jesus, through Your words and actions, You showed us a better way. Help us to follow Your teachings, even when we struggle to understand. May we pick up our crosses and follow You so that we may experience the wisdom and power that comes from the Gospel. Amen.

Image Source: Emily Morter


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