2025/09/14 SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
- Nicole Zenner, Chief of Staff & Strategy
Where do you see the Cross each day? Maybe it’s a necklace you wear, a tattoo (like I have), a crucifix on the wall of your home, or the cross you trace over yourself as you pray. Do you pause when you notice it? What does it remind you of—comfort in your struggles, strength in your work, or a call to live with more courage and love? For me, crosses give me strength reminding me of God’s love for me.
Today’s Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross invites us to see the Cross not as defeat, but as the place where God’s love is lifted high for the world. In the Gospel of John, Jesus recalls the bronze serpent raised by Moses: when the people looked upon it, they were healed. In the same way, Jesus is lifted on the Cross, not to condemn, but to heal, to save, to give eternal life.
We know what it is to be weary like the Israelites. Living in Chicago, we carry heavy burdens— the lost & forsaken in our midst, the pace of life, the divisions in our city, the attacks on our neighbors & city, the struggles in our homes and hearts. We long for something to lift our eyes beyond the weight of it all. The Cross is that place. When we look upon it, we remember that God so loved the world—so loved us—that He gave His only Son.
Saint Paul reminds us that Jesus humbled Himself, taking the form of a servant, and because of this, He is exalted. The Cross shows us that true greatness is found not in pride or power, but in humble love and service. I think we need to read that again - the Cross shows us that true greatness is found not in pride or power, but in humble love and service. How are you embodying that humble love and service in your day today?
Every time we gather for Mass, we live out Jesus’ humbleness and his exaltation. This weekend we honor and recommit our liturgical ministers—those who help lift up the mystery of Christ in our midst. Our lectors proclaim the Word, our extraordinary ministers share the Eucharist, our greeters and ushers extend Christ’s welcome, our servers and musicians make our worship beautiful and prayerful. Through their service, they help us raise our eyes to Jesus.
And here is the invitation: perhaps Christ is calling you to join them. Not simply because we need more help—though we do—but because you gain so much when you serve. You gain a deeper encounter with Christ when you proclaim His Word or share His Body. You gain community and belonging when you welcome people at the door. You gain growth and confidence when you step into new roles. You gain joy when you realize God is working through you. Couldn’t we all use a little more joy? Couldn’t our city use a little more joy?
So today, as we exalt the Holy Cross, let us lift our eyes to Christ. Let us lift our lives in service. In a city hungry & desperate for hope, may we be the ones who lift high the Cross—so that all may believe and have life in His name.