Accepting the Cross of Standing with God While Rejecting Satan

Abortion. Same-Sex marriage. Persecution of Catholics. The list goes on.

Catholics are tempted to abandon their faith so they can fit in and accept the temptations of the world. 

The readings from the 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time speak to many who need to know the main duty of every Catholic Christian.

Rebuking Satan

Much has happened since last week. Recall that the gospel for the 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time shared about Jesus giving St. Peter an ultimate task as he will build his church on a rock. Now, the tone changes when he rejects Jesus as he foretells his forthcoming passion. He would rebuke Satan in the guise of St. Peter's remark seeing him as an obstacle. 

Accepting the Cross

Jesus would go on to tell his followers that they must abandon everything on earth and follow him by taking up their crosses. 

St. Paul concurs on the gauntlet first issued by Jesus to his apostles. He reminds the Romans to, “Not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.

For us, we must not strive for what the world offers, but what God promises us when we strive for heavenly perfection. Far too often, we can be discouraged.

The 63rd psalm reminds us, “You are my help, and in the shadow of your wings I shout for joy. My soul clings fast to you; your right hand upholds me."

Let’s begin to look up to God as he will show us the rewards of heaven. 

Today, let us take up the cross as we journey to heaven.