Revision of Scripture Reflections - EXALTATION OF THE CROSS from Thu, 09/11/2014 - 2:31pm
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Scripture Quote
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For God so loved the world that God gave God's only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send God's Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. John 3:13-17 |
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Reflection |
The universe seems to be a giant paradigm of the spiritual journey. Thanks to the discoveries of astrophysics and associated sciences, it is possible to see the stages of human development reflected in the Big Bang, the endless expansion of the universe, and the birth and death of nebulae, galaxies, stars, and planets. ... The supernova and its final dissolution by exploding and sending forth into space what remains of its nuclear energy -- its very substance -- is a symbol of the ultimate death of the ego and the birth of unity consciousness. The star literally collapses upon itself and gives away all that it has or is, blasting its enormous energies across vast reaches of space and, evntually, becoming myriads of new galaxies, stars and planets in the expanding universe. Thus, the dying star co-creates the universe of matter with all its potentialities -- perhaps even life itself -- together with the Creator. CHRIST is the ultimate supernova in this metaphor. He literally pours himself out - 'empties Himself' - and becomes nothing in order to become everything. On the Cross, he invites his followers to do the same: to enter fully into the death and resurrection of the evolving universe. This supreme sacriice is expressed in each of us in varying degrees according to our destiny or vocation. This experience identifies with the crucifixion of Jesus and it is to die more completely than in physical death. Its completion is the moment of resurrection (redemption). It is the release of divine energy capable of transmitting the divine light, life and love and of raising up new communities of seekers and lovers of God. It challenges societies on every level, but with great gentleness, compassion and kindness, creating means of healing for every human need. Reflections on the Unknowable -- Thomas Keating
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| PRAYER |
In your laborious life, my dear daughters, I pray that you are like Jesus Christ on the cross -- each of you has received her mission from the Incarnate Word, and all your sufferings are, so to speak, a cooperation in the mystery of the Redemption. Look, though old stars burn out and die, look to new horizons and even beyond. ... Let no difficulty conquer you. When your soul is in darkness, wait patiently until light returns. Let us suffer all for God, let us lose all for God and WE SHALL FIND ALL IN GOD. -- St. Mary Euphrasia
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