“So must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him may have eternal life.” – John 3:14-15
A child, stung by a bee, runs to her father in panic. Instead of scolding, he lifts her onto his shoulders and says, “Focus on me, not the sting.” As she locks eyes with him, her breathing steadies—the pain still there, but her fear dissolves.
When the Israelites were dying from snake bites, God told them to look at a bronze serpent and they would live (Num 21:8). Jesus said He would be lifted up just like that serpent—so everyone who looks to Him in faith can live forever (John 3:14-15). The Cross is God’s answer to our deepest problem: sin. Just like medicine heals sickness, Jesus’ sacrifice heals our broken relationship with God. It’s not complicated—when we trust what Jesus did for us, we receive new life. Just as the child found peace by looking up to her father, we are invited to lift our eyes to Jesus and believe. Some days we feel too guilty or broken to come to God. But the Cross says: “Come as you are.” Jesus took our punishment so we could receive His peace. The more we look to Him—in prayer, in Scripture, in worship—the more His life fills ours. So, don’t let the sting of life consume you. Look to the One who was lifted up—He still saves.
A Journey of Reflection and Action
- Journaling: Write about the “stings” in your life—hurts, worries, or sins that weigh you down. End each entry by writing a prayer of surrender to Jesus.
- Scripture Meditation: Slowly read John 3:14–15 and Numbers 21:8, asking the Spirit to remind you where to lift your eyes today.
- Sharing: Encourage a friend who is struggling by pointing them to Jesus’ sacrifice as a source of peace.
- Group Discussion: Reflect together on times when focusing on Christ steadied your heart in life’s painful seasons.
Join Us in Prayer
Lord Jesus, when life’s stings overwhelm us, remind us to lift our eyes to You. Thank You for bearing our punishment on the Cross and offering us peace. Teach us to focus on Your love, not our fear. Amen.
Next Step on Your Journey
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Scripture Footnote & Further Reading
- Scripture Footnote: Gospel of the Day (Catholic Daily Reading, 14 Sept 2025 – Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross).
- Further Reading:
- First Reading: Numbers 21:4b–9
- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 78:1–2, 34–35, 36–37, 38
- Second Reading: Philippians 2:6–11
- Alleluia: We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because by your Cross you have redeemed the world.
- Gospel: John 3:13–17
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