Whoever does not seek the cross of Christ doesn't seek the glory of Christ

Whoever does not seek the cross of Christ doesn't seek the glory of Christ

Saint John of the Cross, a Spanish mystic and poet of the 16th century, is known for his profound spiritual writings that delve into the depths of the soul's journey towards union with God. One of his most famous quotes is, "Whoever does not seek the cross of Christ doesn't seek the glory of Christ." This statement encapsulates the core of John's teachings on the necessity of embracing suffering and self-denial in order to attain true spiritual transformation and union with God.

For Saint John of the Cross, the cross symbolizes the path of self-emptying and surrender to God's will. It represents the trials and tribulations that one must endure in order to purify the soul and detach from worldly attachments. By embracing the cross, one enters into a deeper relationship with Christ and participates in his redemptive suffering. Through the cross, one is able to experience the glory of Christ, which is the ultimate goal of the spiritual journey.

In his spiritual masterpiece, "The Dark Night of the Soul," Saint John of the Cross describes the process of purification and transformation that the soul must undergo in order to reach union with God. He explains that the dark night is a period of intense spiritual purgation, where the soul is stripped of all attachments and desires that hinder its union with God. It is a time of profound suffering and darkness, but also a time of profound grace and transformation.

Saint John of the Cross teaches that the cross is not just a symbol of suffering, but also a symbol of hope and redemption. Through the cross, one is able to experience the glory of Christ, which is the ultimate fulfillment of the soul's deepest longings. By embracing the cross, one is able to participate in Christ's redemptive work and share in his victory over sin and death.