“The message of the cross…is the power of God” (1 Cor 1:18). To those seeking signs or intellectual proof, the cross can seem weak: a stumbling block, even nonsense. But the Father chose this “foolishness” as his divine wisdom: Jesus, the sinless One, offered as the perfect sacrifice. It caught even Satan off guard. Death was defeated, and eternal life was given: and even now,  supernatural life through the Holy Spirit dwelling in us. All of this comes through the cross. Without it, there would be no daily assurance that sins are forgiven, no way to begin again. St Augustine, who once lived a wayward life for many years, struggling with sin, found mercy at the cross. His writings continue to impact us to this day, and he is recognised as a Doctor of the Church. His life reminds us that when guilt tempts us to give up, we can turn again to Jesus, and start anew. “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” St Augustine.

PRAYER: Abba Father, thank you for the miracle of the cross, which lets me walk with you and abide in you. Amen.