Some crosses do not look like crosses. They appear in ordinary life as difficult conversations, forgiveness offered when the heart is not ready, unnoticed sacrifices, or the quiet choice to defend the vulnerable when silence would be safer. In the Earlier Rule XVII:3, St. Francis of Assisi urged his brothers: “Let all the brothers, however, preach by their deeds.” True Franciscan spirituality is never content with words alone; it seeks to live the Gospel with simplicity, humility, and joyful fidelity, allowing every action to proclaim Christ crucified and risen.
Peter confessed Jesus as the Messiah, yet resisted the Cross. He desired Christ without suffering, victory without sacrifice, and resurrection without Calvary. Jesus replied: “You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do. Jeremiah experienced the same tension. God’s word burned within him, yet fidelity brought rejection and suffering (Jer 20:9). Saint Paul therefore exhorts us: “Do not be conformed to this world” (Rom 12:2).
The Cross of Christ is not merely a symbol to wear or admire; it is a call to conversion, humble love, and courageous fidelity. What cross am I avoiding because it demands sacrifice? Whom have I wounded, refused to forgive, or failed to defend? May the Cross we profess become the Cross we live, leading us through Calvary to the joy of resurrection.
Fr. Kingsley Nze
Director of Pastoral Affairs
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