Spiritual Corner -- The Cross and the Serpent

Today is traditionally called the Laetare Sunday taken from the opening words of the entrance antiphon: rejoice with Jerusalem. Today, rose vestments can be worn in place of purple, and the altar can be decorated with flowers.

In this way, the church wishes to remind us that joy is compatible with pain, suffering, and humiliation. As we approach the Cross in pain and humiliation, we realize redemption is ever coming closer. When we look at the Cross with the eyes of a man, it is a sign of mortification and pain; and yet, if we look at the Cross with the eyes of the crucified Jesus, it becomes a sign of salvation, fulfilment and glory. Anyone who looks at it and believes will have eternal life, because the light of the world, Jesus Christ, has come and darkness has been dispelled. In this way, we are all filled with joy: Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her all you who love her.

Do you remember how Satan in the form of a snake cheated Adam and Eve into committing the original sin? (Gen 3: 4-5). The serpent became a sign of destruction and humiliation. And yet this changed when many of the Israelites, after complaining about their journey out of Egypt and crossing the Red Sea, were bitten to death by serpents in the wilderness. After they repented and confessed their sins, God asked Moses to make a serpent and put it up on a pole. Anyone who was bitten could look at it and live. (Numbers: 21: 6, 8) Serpent has become a sign of healing and hope because God is kind and merciful, full of love and forgiving.

Do you believe that the Cross and serpent can be signs of healing, hope and redemption?

Yours,
Deacon Thomas Kung