Embracing the Cross: A Call to Compassion and Truth

 

Summary

In my sermon today, I reflected on the profound significance of Good Friday and the Theology of the Cross, which I fear is being overshadowed by a "cross-less Christianity" in our contemporary society. I emphasized the importance of understanding and embracing the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, as it is central to our faith and the transformative power of the Easter story.

I drew attention to the character of Simon of Cyrene, who was compelled to help Jesus carry the cross to Golgotha. Simon's act of bearing the cross alongside Jesus serves as a powerful model for us, calling us to a sense of compassion, solidarity, and shared responsibility. It is a reminder that the journey of faith is not just about Jesus' sacrifice, but also about our willingness to take up our own crosses and support others in their burdens.

I lamented the growing trend of anti-religious sentiment, particularly anti-Semitism, which is alarmingly prevalent among young Canadians. The lack of knowledge and understanding of historical events like the Holocaust is deeply concerning. This ignorance and denial contribute to a culture of misinformation and deceit, which parallels the mockery and shame that Jesus endured.

I also shared my personal lament over the state of interfaith dialogue and the resurgence of anti-Semitism within our society and even within the Christian community. The recent events have revealed a disturbing undercurrent of animosity and insincerity in interfaith efforts, which has been particularly evident in the experiences shared with me by members of the Jewish community in Ottawa.

The sermon concluded with a call to action for us to step into the Good Friday experience, to metaphorically climb onto the cross with Jesus, and to sit in lamentation. It is in this space of grief and reflection that we can truly grasp the significance of Jesus' choice to remain on the cross and the hope that emerges from the Theology of the Cross.

Key Takeaways:

- Simon of Cyrene's involvement in the crucifixion narrative is not just a historical footnote; it is a profound invitation for us to actively participate in the burdens and sufferings of others. As Simon was pulled from the crowd to carry the cross, we too are called to step out of our comfort zones and bear the weight of injustice and pain that exists in the world. [12:09]

- The concept of "cross-less Christianity" is a stark warning against diluting the essence of our faith. Without the cross, without the acknowledgment of suffering and sacrifice, Christianity risks becoming an inauthentic shell of its true self. The cross is not just a symbol of pain, but also a beacon of hope and redemption. [01:55]

- The alarming rise of anti-Semitism and the denial of historical atrocities like the Holocaust are not just societal issues; they are spiritual ones. They challenge us to confront the darkness and to be bearers of truth and light in a world that often prefers to ignore or rewrite history. [07:12]

- Lamentation is a necessary and powerful spiritual practice, especially on Good Friday. It allows us to name and sit with the brokenness in our lives and in the world. Through lament, we can begin to understand the depth of Jesus' sacrifice and the transformative power of the cross. [02:32]

- The integrity of interfaith dialogue is crucial in our efforts to build bridges between different religious communities. The recent revelations of insincerity and underlying prejudices within these dialogues call us to a deeper commitment to honesty, understanding, and genuine relationship-building. [05:48]

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Mark 15:21 - "A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross."
2. Luke 9:23 - "Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'"
3. Matthew 27:41-43 - "In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. 'He saved others,' they said, 'but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’'"

#### Observation Questions
1. What role did Simon of Cyrene play in the crucifixion narrative according to Mark 15:21?
2. In Luke 9:23, what does Jesus say is required to be his disciple?
3. How did the chief priests and elders mock Jesus during the crucifixion as described in Matthew 27:41-43?
4. According to the sermon, what is the significance of Simon of Cyrene's act of carrying the cross? ([12:09])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Simon of Cyrene's involvement in carrying the cross teach us about compassion and solidarity? ([12:09])
2. How does the concept of "cross-less Christianity" challenge the authenticity of our faith? ([01:55])
3. Why is lamentation considered a necessary spiritual practice, especially on Good Friday? ([02:32])
4. How does the rise of anti-Semitism and denial of historical atrocities like the Holocaust relate to the suffering and mockery Jesus endured? ([07:12])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to step out of your comfort zone to help someone in need. How did that experience shape your understanding of bearing others' burdens? ([12:09])
2. In what ways can you ensure that the Theology of the Cross remains central in your personal faith and in your church community? ([01:55])
3. How can you practice lamentation in your daily life to better understand and connect with the suffering of Jesus and others? ([02:32])
4. What steps can you take to educate yourself and others about historical events like the Holocaust to combat misinformation and denial? ([07:12])
5. How can you contribute to genuine and honest interfaith dialogue in your community? What actions can you take to build bridges and foster understanding? ([05:48])
6. Think of a situation where you witnessed or experienced mockery or shame. How can you respond in a way that reflects the hope and redemption found in the cross? ([09:57])
7. Identify one specific way you can support the Jewish community or any marginalized group in your area. What practical steps can you take this week to show solidarity and compassion? ([05:12])

Devotional

Day 1: Bearing Burdens Together
In the narrative of Simon of Cyrene, one finds a profound call to action that extends beyond the pages of scripture and into the fabric of daily life. Simon's compelled act of carrying the cross is a vivid illustration of shared suffering and the human responsibility to alleviate the burdens of others. This act of compassion is not merely a historical event but a timeless example, urging individuals to step out of their comfort zones and engage with the pain that exists in the world. It is a reminder that faith is not a solitary journey but a communal endeavor where the weight of injustice and sorrow is distributed among willing shoulders. The act of bearing one another's burdens is a tangible expression of love and solidarity, reflecting the heart of the gospel message.

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." - Galatians 6:2

Reflection: Who in your community is carrying a heavy burden, and how can you offer your support to them this week?

Day 2: The Necessity of the Cross
The concept of a "cross-less Christianity" is a stark deviation from the core of Christian faith, which holds the cross as a central symbol of suffering, sacrifice, and ultimately, redemption. Without the cross, the message of Christianity risks becoming superficial, losing its transformative power. The cross is not merely a symbol of agony; it is the pivot on which the hope of resurrection and new life balances. It is a call to acknowledge the reality of suffering and to find in it the seeds of hope that bloom into the promise of eternal life. The cross challenges believers to look beyond the pain and see the profound love and victory that it represents.

"But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." - Galatians 6:14

Reflection: How does the symbol of the cross challenge you to live out your faith in the midst of personal trials or societal injustices?

Day 3: Confronting Darkness with Truth
The rise of anti-Semitism and the denial of historical events like the Holocaust are not merely societal issues but spiritual battles that call for a response from people of faith. These issues challenge individuals to confront the darkness with the light of truth and to be vigilant bearers of historical accuracy and moral integrity. The denial and ignorance that fuel such prejudices are akin to the mockery and shame that Jesus faced, and they require a steadfast commitment to truth and justice. It is the responsibility of believers to educate themselves and others, to stand against misinformation, and to uphold the dignity of all people, reflecting the inclusive love of Christ.

"Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them." - Ephesians 5:11

Reflection: What steps can you take to educate yourself and your community about the reality of anti-Semitism and other forms of historical denial?

Day 4: Embracing Lamentation as Transformation
Lamentation is a powerful spiritual discipline that allows individuals to sit with the brokenness of the world and their own lives. It is in the act of lamenting that one can begin to understand the depth of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. Good Friday invites believers to enter into a space of grief and reflection, to fully grasp the weight of Jesus' choice to endure the cross for humanity's sake. This practice is not about dwelling in despair but about moving through sorrow to a place of hope and transformation. It is in the depths of lament that the true power of the cross is revealed, offering a path to healing and resurrection.

"For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried to him." - Psalm 22:24

Reflection: What is a personal or communal grief that you need to lament, and how can this practice deepen your understanding of the cross?

Day 5: Integrity in Interfaith Dialogue
The recent challenges faced in interfaith dialogue, particularly the resurgence of anti-Semitism, highlight the need for sincerity and commitment in building relationships between different faith communities. The integrity of these dialogues is essential for fostering mutual respect and understanding. It is a call to go beyond superficial interactions and to engage in honest conversations that acknowledge differences while seeking common ground. This commitment to genuine dialogue is a reflection of the Christian mandate to love one's neighbor and to work towards peace and reconciliation in a divided world.

"Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good." - Romans 12:9

Reflection: How can you contribute to building sincere and respectful interfaith relationships in your own context?

Quotes

"The alarming rise of anti-Semitism and the denial of historical atrocities like the Holocaust are not just societal issues; they are spiritual ones. They challenge us to confront the darkness and to be bearers of truth and light in a world that often prefers to ignore or rewrite history." [07:12]( | | )

"I look at some of the power Brokers in the Christian faith today globally and I lament what I consider to be their scandalous abandonment of core values of Christianity. The chief priest as it's named by Pilate, who sees the very envy and jealousy that the chief priests have about Jesus." [09:18]( | | )

"I have quietly reached out here in Ottawa to a number of Jewish friends and leaders to hear their stories. It's shocking what the Jewish Community is telling me about what their daily lives are like now here in Ottawa. The underlying anti-Semitism that's always been there is now shockingly evident." [05:12]( | | )

"Simon serves as such an incredibly important role. He's drafted by the Roman soldiers but he comes in and he helps Carry the Cross. This Simon was coming for the Passover experience too and all of a sudden he finds himself being tasked with carrying the cross of Jesus." [11:26]( | | )

"The Theology of the Cross has been replaced by all kinds of other theological imperatives that people want to have all the good news all the time. They don't understand that the good news is meaningless unless you fully understand the Theology of the Cross." [01:19]( | | )

"Here we are in Good Friday, you've come here because you recognize the significance of the day. So you have to step into that Good Friday experience and that's not easy. It's a day to lament, to name things happening either in our own lives or in the world that grieve us." [02:32]( | | )

"Simon of Cyrene's involvement in the crucifixion narrative is not just a historical footnote; it is a profound invitation for us to actively participate in the burdens and sufferings of others. As Simon was pulled from the crowd to carry the cross, we too are called to step out of our comfort zones." [12:09]( | | )

"Good Friday is such an important day for Christians to sit in the meaning of Good Friday. The Theology of the Cross is central to our faith and the transformative power of the Easter story. Without the cross, Christianity risks becoming an inauthentic shell of its true self." [00:37]( | | )

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?