Daily Gospel Reflection for September 14, 2026: Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Explore the significance of Baptism and embracing the cross in our faith journey, as we reflect on God's love and the grace in our struggles.

Today's Gospel: John 3:3-17

"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

"Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ." John 17:3

The old Baltimore Catechism says, “God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him forever in heaven.”

As Catholics, we believe that we are born again in the sacrament of Baptism when our parents and godparents present us to God in the church. We are reborn into Christ’s life. It is a gift, but we must open the gift. This sacrament gives us the grace to continue on our faith journey. If we open the gift of faith each day, God will continue to lead, guide, and teach us.

Jesus and the Holy Spirit take each of us on a journey towards the heart of God the Father. God leads you up the mountains of high joy, sometimes along the still water, down into the valleys of despair, and other times into a plateau of familiarity. Each day, we have the opportunity to know Him more and more. He changes us within as we spend time with Him.

Do not be dismayed if there are crosses along the way. My husband, a permanent deacon in the Catholic Church, shares, “When you accept Jesus, you accept the cross.” He believes that the truth needs to be shared, not merely verses that tickle the ears of the listener.

Ponder:

Do you see the cross as a gift in your life? Why or why not?

Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for sending Jesus to die for my sins. Please help me open the gift of faith each day and see the grace in the sufferings that come my way. I want to know You.

Pray Together:

As a family, pray for those carrying a cross and offer to help them in a tangible way.

Copyright 2026 Ellen Mongan