Unconditional Love

Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross 

14 September 2025

 

First Reading: Numbers 21:4b-9

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 78:1bc-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38

Second Reading: Philippians 2:6-11

Gospel: John 3:13-17

 

Reflection

By: Benj Santiago

 

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish, but might have eternal life …” John 3:16

I am assured that everything begins with God’s love, and that God’s love is not small or selective. It is for the whole world, for every single person, sinners and holy. As in everyone even the corrupt and the murderers who repent. Because of this great love, God gave us His greatest gift: His Son, Jesus Christ fully revealed on the Cross. When Jesus was “lifted up” on the Cross, He carried our sins and gave His life for us. His sacrifice offered forgiveness and eternal life. We just have to believe.

To “believe in Him” means more than just knowing about Jesus. It means trusting Him, following Him, and letting His love guide our lives. It means turning away from our sins and following Him. When we put our faith in Jesus, we don’t have to fear being lost or condemned. Instead, we are promised eternal life—a life with God that begins now and lasts forever.

The Cross, then, is not a sign of punishment, but a sign of love. It reminds us that no matter what we go through, or how big the sin we have committed, God’s love is stronger than sin and death. John 3:16 is truly the Good News: God loves us, God saves us, and God gives us life through His Son.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, we thank You for showing us Your great love by giving Your life on the Cross. Help us all to believe in You with all our hearts, to trust, and to follow You in everything we do. Teach us to live with hope, to share Your love with others, and to never forget that we are saved by Your sacrifice. May Your Cross always remind us of the eternal life You have promised. Amen.