In this Sunday’s Epistle reading, St. Paul says, “But far be it for me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ by which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.” Fr. Micah explores what it means for the world to be crucified to us and for us to be crucified to the world in today’s homily.

First, he addresses the phrase, “The world has been crucified to me,” explaining that it means the world is dead — that is, the world is not viewed as a tool for our use, an idol, or a distraction. Rather, it’s a gift, a wonder, that we celebrate with thanksgiving, recognizing the Giver.

Next, he addresses what it means to be “crucified to the world,” which means that one is free from corruption, death, and the passions. This is true freedom, not the ability to do whatever we want, but to be free from wanting itself — to transfigure out wanting into what Christ wants.

Fr. Micah concludes by encouraging us in how we live in this way, looking to the Cross of Christ, knowing that we are not worthy or deserving of that love that is stronger than death.