“No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life” (Jn 3:13-15).

The reference to Moses lifting up the serpent can be found in Numbers 21:4-9. The people, worn out by their journey in the desert began to complain instead of trust in God’s deliverance. The people sought a return to their prior condition of slavery rather than forge ahead and endure the trials of gaining freedom. Venomous snakes came into the camp and began to bite many who then died. The people recognized their sin and implored Moses’ intercession. Moses prayed for the people and lifted up a bronze serpent on a pole and whoever looked upon the serpent was healed.

There is a difference between seeking understanding from God, seeking to understand why something is happening in our lives, and complaining from a posture of self centeredness. The Israelites were looking at their present condition of suffering and missing the point that that they were free from slavery. They were not trusting in God’s providential care and support.

How often do we with our ease of access slip into whining and complaining mode when something doesn’t go quite right. St Paul reminds us through his words to the Corinthians: “Let us not test Christ as some of them did, and suffered death by serpents.” In our most recent exodus heading north to flee Irma, JoAnn and I experienced many hours of travel in bumper to bumper traffic. I had to remind myself often, that at least we had the freedom to leave, while there were many who did not. Again Paul reminds us that no matter what arises, “God is faithful and will not let you be tried beyond your strength; bit with the trial he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to bear it” (1 Cor 10:9,13).

Today we celebrate the triumph of the cross. It is a good reminder that, when trials and tribulations arise, instead of grumbling, let us look to the crucifix. The sacramental reminder that the Son of God came to be one with us, to experience the fullness of our human experience, even our pain and suffering, to lead us to freedom through his death and resurrection. Jesus is present to us in our struggles and when we turn away from only looking at our own self and limitation, turn instead to him on the cross, seek his guidance, and place our trust in him, we will experience his power and support, we will be able to bear the weight of the struggle, and there will be a way out, through the cross.

What used to be a symbol of oppression, torture, and capital punishment is no more. Let us embrace and “glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ; in him is our salvation, life and resurrection. Through him we are saved and set free” (Gal 6:14). Is the life of the disciple easier? No, but with Christ at our side we will be free.

Link for the Mass readings of the day:

http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091417.cfm

Photo: Crucifix in the sanctuary of St Peter