Scripture informs Scripture. 

This morning I was praying over the readings for this coming Sunday (25th in Ordinary time, Cycle A) while also reflecting on the readings for today’s Feast of the Triumph of the Cross.  During the course of these reflections I was struck by St. Paul’s words in the Letter to the Philippians (from Sunday’s readings); “For to me life is Christ, and death is gain.” (Phil. 1:21)

This succinct phrase (only possible to achieve, I believe, by the mystery of lived experience) sheds light on today’s Feast of the Triumph of the Cross.

Paul, it seems, is grappling with the mystery of the cross in the life of discipleship.  Our Lord has said that if we truly wish to be his disciples then we must pick up our cross and follow after him. 

There are many versions of the gospel being proclaimed today that omit or outright deny the mystery of the cross in the life of discipleship.  And many people flock to this message.  But it is an empty message. 

The cross must be embraced in the life of discipleship and its wisdom must be learned if we would truly disciples be.