Readings for Sunday, September 14 — Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Numbers 21:4B-9; Psalm 78:1BC-2,34-35,36-37,38; Philippians 2:6-11; John 3:13-17

Suggested Reflection Questions:

• In the first reading, we find the Israelites weary from the journey and grumbling against God. In our weariness in life, it is easy to be angry or ungrateful for the blessings in our lives. Think of a specific time when you felt ungrateful toward God. Were you weary? How did you turn your attitude around? Also, think of a way you can get into the habit of being grateful toward God on a regular basis — a journal, a morning prayer, etc.
• In the second reading, we hear the summary of the great gift of Jesus — humbling Himself to know the human experience. Think of a time when you had the opportunity to advance but remained humble. Or, maybe you have done an act of great kindness that you requested no credit for. How have these experiences shaped your faith life? Take a moment to reflect and gauge how humble you have been in your daily life. Are you doing well — could you do more?
• In the Gospel, meditate on the verse “For God so loved the world that He sent His only Son.” Think about how God must have felt seeing all that happened to Jesus while on earth. Think of all the times God took pride in him or when God had to watch Jesus’ brutal death unfold. Meditate on the image of God, a father or parent. Has anyone in your life sent you into the world, knowing that good and hard times would follow? Who are these people? How can we follow the example of God, the Father, in our own lives?