The series of atrocious attacks on human life disturbs and worries consciences and gives rise to the searching question that recurs in the psalms: “Why Lord? How long?”

God has answered this anguishing question that emanates from the scandal of evil, not with an explanation of principle, as if desiring to justify himself, but with the sacrifice of his own Son on the Cross.

The apparent triumph of evil and the definitive victory of good converge in the death of Jesus; the darkest moment in history and the revelation of divine glory; the breaking point and the center of attraction and of the recomposition of the universe. And I, Jesus says, once I am lifted up from earth, will draw all men to myself (Jn12:32).

For believers, the Cross of Christ is an icon of hope, because it was on the Cross that the saving plan of God’s love was brought about.

Fixing our gaze on the crucified Christ, in spiritual union with the Virgin Mary, let us continue on our way, sustained by the power of the Resurrection.

Excerpted from the pope’s Angelus reflection, September 19, 2004.