September 14, 2026 // Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: John 3:13-17

Reflect on the Word // 

As a Protestant growing up, I never had a crucifix in my home. When I became Catholic, I started my collection slowly. Crucifixes were given to me, I would rescue them from yard sales or thrift stores, and I was always quick to buy them from the Blessed Is She shop when a new one was in stock. Over the years, they multiplied. Now they adorn every room in our home, a constant reminder of our Lord, His love for us, and His sacrifice to bring us eternal life. 

I recently saw a photograph of a different cross. In the foreground was a statue of the Blessed Mother in a traditional pose, holding the body of our Lord in her arms. A wooden cross hung behind and above them both. But the cross was not empty. Along its beams, the tools of the Passion were mounted including the flagrum, a long spear, and a hammer. They were suspended in the air, creating a stunning reminder that the empty cross cannot be separated from the Crucifixion.

Seeing the instruments of Christ’s suffering mounted where Jesus had been brought a new harshness to the Crucifixion itself. Together, they presented a brutal timeline that ended with the piercing of His side and the outpouring of Blood and water.

Growing up, I was told the empty cross celebrates Christ’s Resurrection and victory over death, as though we could fast-forward through the painful parts. This cross, adorned with the tools of the Passion, together with the image of Mary holding Jesus’ body, highlight both His sacrifice and His love.

On today’s Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, which type of cross do we exalt? Do we rush past the difficult parts to focus only on the victory?

As Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so the Son of Man was lifted up for us. Let us gaze upon Christ Crucified, allowing His sacrifice and love to draw us closer to eternal life.

Relate to the Lord // Spend some time praying before a crucifix today. Thank Jesus for His sacrifice and love!