The Seven Lights of the Cross

Extract

Jesus came into the world to give light. He was prefigured by the golden candlestick, which was placed in the Temple with seven lamps, and gave light to the whole Temple. And (he seven lights which enlighten the temple of Holy Church are the seven words which Christ spoke from the Cross.

The first darkness in this world is the way enemies are treated. The minds of many are obscured by passion, and they think it is lawful to hate those that would hurt them. These people answer an offending-word with evil deeds; they will strike with a knife those that have struck them with a blow; they will never forgive until they have revenged themselves; they will pray God not for the forgiveness, but for the destruction of their enemies.

Jesus enlightens this most obscure darkness of Egypt when He speaks the first word from the Cross : ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. . . .’ And this is how He revenged Himself for all the injuries they did Him : He prayed for them,

‘Father, forgive them.’ Learn this lesson then from Him. Fulfil it, for such is His will.

The second darkness of the world is the fact that each one cares only for himself and neglects to help his neighbour in his spiritual and temporal needs. ‘To-day,’ said Christ to the good thief, ‘thou shalt be with Me in Paradise.’ This is the second word spoken from the Cross, and it will enlighten your steps in your journey through this life, so that they may not be entangled; for, as the psalmist says, ‘Thy word is a lamp to my feet.’