Ever since I arrived in Tucson, I’ve been attending the University Newman Catholic Church. Today, as we marked the beginning of Ordinary Time, something unexpected happened—I was asked if I could carry the cross to the altar during Mass.
On a normal day, I might have politely declined. I often don’t feel worthy enough to carry the cross, and I’m wary of the visibility, the chance of making a mistake in such a reverent and organized liturgical space. But today was different.
Ever since I decided to walk more intentionally with Christ, I’ve felt called to show up even when I feel hesitant or unprepared. And so I said yes. As I reflect on this moment, I’m reminded of Matthew 16:24–26:
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”
Perhaps this moment was a small but profound reminder of the Christian walk: not always smooth, often uncertain, and yet filled with grace. The cross is not only a symbol of suffering and death—it is also a testament to resurrection, redemption, and love.
What if our journey isn’t about being perfect before we come to Him? What if it’s about showing up in our mess, in our unworthiness, and letting Him meet us there? Maybe it’s in the act of picking up the cross—awkwardly, humbly, publicly—that we begin to understand what following Christ truly means.
So here’s to this new season. Not extraordinary in its drama, but sacred in its ordinariness. May we find courage to carry our own crosses, however quietly, and allow Christ to carry us in return 🙂
Introduction 
Leave a Reply