I had commented in a previous posting to what I perceived as a decline in baptized Catholics making the Sign of the Cross.  I recently read St. Francis De Sales on the Sign of the Cross.  He teaches that as Christians we represent in a simple motion the Passion of Christ by tracing the Sign of the Cross.  The Sign is also a public profession of our faith.  Some who see Christ and His Cross as shame, folly and a fantasy may mock us for making the Sign of the Cross.  Upon the cross Christ abased Himself and subjected Himself to death. To a Christian, the Sign of the Cross is employed to give honor to the ultimate sacrifice offered by Christ Jesus.

The Sign of the Cross is also a defense against demons.  It is invincible armor against the Evil One.  According to St. Francis De Sales the Sign of Cross is a helmet to defend the head, a breastplate to preserve the chest, a buckler to repel the arrows of the Evil One, and a sword to defend against diabolical tricks.

The Sign of the Cross, according to St. Francis De Sales, is a brief and powerful invocation to Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, which can be employed at any time and for any occasion. Ultimately, our glory lies in the cross and Christ crucified.  This is why we mark ourselves, and all occasions with the Cross.