The CROSS is part of the journey of faith here on earth. We will hear Jesus telling us in the Gospel this Sunday that those who wish to follow him must deny themselves and pick up their CROSS. Our humanity desires a life free from suffering, free from the CROSS. But God knows that new life happens when we are able to embrace the CROSS and make a journey of faith with Him. May we pray for the grace to bear the CROSS we carry with deep trust and confidence in God.