Monday, January 28, 2008

Crucify

Mark 3:22-30

Feast of Saint Thomas Aquinas

Words from the doctor himself:
Why did the son of God have to suffer for us?  It can be considered in a twofold way: fist as a remedy for sin, and secondly, as an example of how to act. 

It is a remedy, for, in the face of evils which we incur account of our sins, we have found relief through the passion of Christ.

The passion completely suffices to fashion our lives.  Whoever wishes to live perfectly should do nothing but disdain what Christ disdained on the cross and desire what he desired, for the cross exemplifies every virtue. 

Example of love: he gave his life for us thus it should strengthen us to bear the difficulties and hardships for his sake.

Example of patience: great patience is due to suffering much patiently or when one suffers things which one is able to avoid and yet does not for sake of a higher good.  Christ endured patiently on the cross much suffering for the highest good.

Example of humility: the judge of all mankind chose to be judged by a man in Pontius Pilate.

Example of obedience: He was obedient to the Father even unto death.

Example at despising earthly things: the King of Kings and Lord of Lords was stripped, mocked, spat upon, crowned with thorns, and given only vinegar and gall to drink...


We have seen the crucified upon the cross many times; look again and again and there the answers to your questions shall be revealed; there the strength to your weaknesses shall arise.

Crucify him! becomes Crucify me! Crucify my thoughts, my words, my deeds! Crucify my desire, my love, my will!  Then let your Glory fill the Earth. 


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