We have seen in the movies, and some of us in real life, when a cross is placed in front of a person who is possessed, the evil person shrieks in anger and fear. Why? The Cross reminds the evil spirit that by the death of Christ on the cross, he has conquered death and sin. The Cross reminds the devil that what was supposed to be the most humiliating form of death was made the greatest sign of love. The Cross reminds the devil that for the repentant sinner, Paradise is the next destination with the words of Christ, “Today you will be in Paradise.” 

Tomorrow, we celebrate the Exaltation of the Cross. We can make the Sign of the Cross a part of our lives in seven ways (according to a blog named The Catholic Gentlemen):

1. Immediately after waking and before sleeping – Making the sign of the Cross immediately after waking up or before sleeping is a powerful way to consecrate our day to Our Lord.
   
2. When passing a Catholic Church – Making the sign of the cross while passing a Catholic Church to recognize Jesus present in the tabernacle and to show him honor and dignity.
   
3. At the Name of the Holy Trinity – In Catholic prayers, the name of the Holy Trinity is often invoked. To show honor to the Holy Trinity, it is a good idea to Cross yourself when saying the Glory Be or any other time the Name is invoked.
   
4. In reparation for blasphemy – The name of God is abused frequently in daily conversations. If you want to make an act of reparation to God for this abuse of his Name, you can quietly make the sign of the Cross.
   
5. Before entering a room or house – We remember the Words of Christ. “In the whatever house you enter say peace to this household.” What better way to bless a house with the sign of the Cross.
   
6. Blessing people or things – A small sign of the cross can be traced on the forehead of a child or upon an object that you wish to bless.
   
7. When afraid. To make the sign of the cross when one is afraid. It is a reminder of how many times Jesus said, “Do not be afraid.”

Twenty-one centuries after Christ died, while the Cross is still the most recognized Christian symbol, it is also one of the most desecrate. Satanists invert it; secularists remove it from places and rooms; shy Christians put it aside; unbelievers mock it.

Why does it solicit such emotions?

Depending on what side of the fence you are on, the Cross reminds you of one’s salvation or one’s defeat.