Meaning: This profound quote by Joseph Ratzinger, who later became Pope Benedict XVI, delves into the significance of the Cross in Christian theology. The quote emphasizes the radical nature of the act of the Cross and its deep implications for the Christian understanding of existence and divine love.

The Cross is a central symbol in Christianity, representing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his subsequent resurrection, which are fundamental to the Christian faith. Ratzinger's quote highlights the idea that the Cross is not merely a symbol or a historical event, but rather an act that profoundly affirms the existence of humanity in a radical and transformative way.

The phrase "approbation of our existence" suggests that the Cross serves as a validation or approval of human existence. It signifies that through the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross, God has affirmed the value and significance of human life. This act of approbation is not expressed in mere words or abstract concepts, but in a concrete and radical manner that has profound implications for humanity.

Ratzinger further emphasizes the radical nature of the Cross by stating that it caused God to become flesh. This refers to the incarnation of Jesus Christ, where God took on human form and entered into the world. The idea that the Cross caused God to become flesh underscores the transformative and redemptive nature of the crucifixion, as it led to the divine entering into the human experience in a deeply personal and profound way.

The quote also alludes to the intense suffering and sacrifice inherent in the crucifixion, as it mentions that the flesh of God was pierced to the quick. This vivid imagery conveys the physical and emotional agony experienced by Jesus on the Cross, highlighting the depth of his sacrifice for humanity. The piercing of the flesh serves as a poignant reminder of the suffering endured by Jesus as an expression of divine love and redemption.

Moreover, Ratzinger asserts that the act of the Cross was so significant that it was worth the death of God's incarnate Son. This reflects the Christian belief in the sacrificial atonement, wherein Jesus' death on the Cross is understood as a redemptive act that reconciles humanity with God. The quote underscores the profound value that God places on the act of the Cross and its implications for humanity's relationship with the divine.

In summary, Joseph Ratzinger's quote encapsulates the profound theological significance of the Cross in Christianity. It highlights the radical nature of the act of the Cross as an affirmation of human existence and a demonstration of divine love and sacrifice. The quote invites contemplation on the deep theological and existential implications of the crucifixion and its enduring significance for the Christian faith.