On the fourth day of the Perjalanan Salib – the Journey of the Cross, the parish joined Catholics throughout Malaysia in praying for the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu. The day’s spiritual and communal goal called for repentance throughout society and the Church, while fostering unity and strength among God’s people.
The liturgical readings offered a profound reflection on what it means to walk the way of the Cross as disciples of Christ.
In the First Reading (2 Corinthians 4:7–15), St Paul describes believers as “earthenware jars” entrusted with the treasure of the Gospel. Though human weakness and suffering are part of the Christian journey, God’s power is revealed through those who remain faithful to Christ.
The Responsorial Psalm proclaimed the promise that “those who are sowing in tears will sing when they reap,” reminding us that sacrifices offered in love and perseverance are never without hope, for God brings new life from every act of faithful endurance.
In the Gospel (Matthew 20:20–28), Jesus taught His disciples that greatness in God’s Kingdom is found not in positions of honour but in humble service. By asking, “Can you drink the cup that I am going to drink?”, He invited them to embrace the Cross before sharing in His glory.
These readings give deeper meaning to the Perjalanan Salib itself. The Journey of the Cross is more than a devotional procession from one parish to another. It is a living reminder that every Christian is called to walk with Christ, embracing the Cross each day with faith, humility and hope. In carrying the Cross, we also carry the treasure of the Gospel into our families, workplaces and communities, becoming witnesses to God’s love through lives of humble service.
The day’s Scriptures also beautifully reflect the prayer intention of the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu. Repentance begins with the humility to recognise our need for God’s mercy. Unity grows when we place service before self-interest. Strength is found not in our own abilities, but in God’s grace working through ordinary people who faithfully follow Christ.
As the Perjalanan Salib continues its Journey of the Cross towards the Malaysia Pastoral Convention, may each encounter draw us closer to the Lord and inspire us to become faithful disciples who carry both His Cross and the treasure of His Gospel wherever we go.
