I just read a newspaper article entitled, "How can anybody focus in this whirlwind culture? The writer points out how we have been conditioned to have short attention spans, creating a sound-bite culture moving from one thing to the next.

We find ourselves with the T.V. remote mindlessly surfing channels switching from show to show. We are on the internet researching a subject on google only to find that we have been sidetracked to check out the latest stock report, mortgage rates or other irrelevant links on the web.

The I-pod or Mp3 players have the ability to download hundreds of songs. It has a remote that can shuffle through those songs. When you are not in the mood for a particular song, click. You skip to the next song, seven notes later you push the button and go to the next.

We live in a culture that divides and conquers our minds. We are filled with thoughts and distracting messages that take us away from a prayerful life, yet our Church is always by our side to inspire us with truth that gives us words and direction that transforms our minds and hearts.

September 1st marks the beginning of the Church year focusing on the Birth of the Theotokos and on the Elevation of the Holy Cross. We are reminded to pause our remotes in life and to focus on the 'real thing'. We are asked to tune-in to God's frequency, God's channel of the life in Christ.

The 'real thing' is that the cross is proof of the love of God. The Cross through Jesus Christ has opened paradise, and has been the guiding symbol leading the human race into the kingdom of God. The Cross is the mighty pulpit with the mighty sermon given by Jesus. Christ crucified and Christ is Risen is the hopeful message!

The way of Christ, the way of the Cross, is to conquer evil with good, to win victory through sacrifice, and to find true life through repentance. Jesus did not die on the Cross so we could live comfortable, well adjusted lives. Jesus' purpose is deeper than that. Our Lord wants to transform us as He escorts us into heaven.

The Cross challenges us to patiently and kindly endure the shortcomings of others. The Cross teaches us to forgive the many hurts that life brings. God wants to give us strength to bear the tough challenges in life, striving to look for God's will in everything.

Jesus wants to restore a relationship with us that is dynamic, alive, and healing.

As you wear your cross around your neck, as you cross yourself at mealtimes, as you cross yourself when beginning and ending your day, remember the presence, guidance, direction and wisdom of our Lord. Remember God's loving mercy. Rejoice in that you are given strength. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"(St. Paul).