Why Do We #Celebrate the #Cross and the #Demera Feast?
(Part 2)
Peace be with you, beloved in Christ. Let us approach the sacred mystery of the Cross and the Feast of Meskel with hearts attentive to the word of God, that we may understand both its depth and its glory.
1. The Mystery of the Holy Cross
When the Cross, on which our Lord Jesus Christ was crucified, was raised, the faithful were called to witness a mystery beyond comprehension: God Himself taking upon humanity the penalty of sin. By His death, Christ became the ransom for all, demonstrating an infinite love that death could not contain. The Cross is not merely wood; it is the very instrument of divine mercy, the bridge through which salvation reaches mankind.
2. From Curse to Blessing
In the Law given to Moses, it was written that anyone hanged on a tree was cursed and unclean (Deuteronomy 21:22–23). Death upon a tree polluted the earth. Yet, Christ, hung upon the Cross, sanctified it, transforming an instrument of shame into the instrument of salvation. Saint Paul reminds us, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree” (Galatians 3:13), yet in Christ this curse became the source of blessing and liberation.
3. Reconciliation and Peace through the Cross
The Cross reconciles all creation to God. Christ destroyed the enmity and abolished the law’s curse, offering peace to the nations. Saint Paul writes:
“And having broken down in the flesh the dividing wall of hostility, having abolished the enmity, that he might make both one… making reconciliation” (Ephesians 2:14–17)
“And having made peace by the blood of his cross, by which God made peace by all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:20)
The Cross is the proof that God’s love cannot be separated from justice, that mercy triumphs where enmity once reigned.
4. Enemies of the Cross
Even today, there are those who oppose the Cross, walking as enemies of Christ (Philippians 3:17). They reject the truth and the humility required to follow Him. We, however, are called to imitate Christ, taking up the Cross in obedience and love, knowing that suffering is often the path to sanctity.
5. The Christian Duty: Bearing the Cross
Christ commands, “If anyone loves me, let him take up his cross and follow me.” Bearing the Cross is not symbolic alone; it is the faithful enduring trials, rejoicing in sorrow, and trusting God in defeat and victory alike. By sharing in Christ’s suffering, we participate in His triumph over death and sin.
6. The Feast of the Cross and Queen Eleni
The Feast of the Cross, celebrated on Meskerem 16 and 17, commemorates the devotion of Queen Eleni, who discovered the location of the True Cross, and the subsequent exhumation of this sacred relic. Her faith reminds us that the Cross is not distant history but a living, guiding light, a call to courage, faith, and reverence. When we light the Demera bonfires, we are reminded that God’s light cannot be extinguished by darkness, nor His truth by doubt.
7. Spiritual Blessings and Intercession
Beloved, let us approach this mystery with hearts attuned to devotion. Let us bear the Cross in our daily lives, sharing its blessing, enduring trials with patience, and holding fast to the hope that is in Christ. May the intercession of the Ever-Virgin Mary and the blessing of the Cross strengthen us, guide us, and make us worthy of the inheritance of eternal life.
May the name of the Holy God be praised forever and ever in every tongue that He has created, today and always.
May the blessings of God's mother, the virgin, and the cross be upon us.
Amen.
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