The Cross: A Symbol of Life? or Death?

There are many who do not recognize the true meaning of the Cross. Not that I know everything, because as Stephanie will tell you, I surely do not. But since this is my blog, I get to have an opinion and since you are reading it, you have to at least read my opinion. The Cross is not just a symbol nor just two lines that cross each other. There has to be meaning behind the Cross. Sometimes I believe people use the Cross to mask themselves, even when they do not know or understand the meaning behind it or the significance behind (or in front) of the Cross. This is not the case for all, but for many. I believe people should truly think of WHY they put up a cross and make sure it is not for an incorrect reason. Now days, so many put up a cross to mark the place where a loved one has passed away, a "roadside memorial". A symbol of where a life ended. That is somewhat normal, I guess. Recently I drove down Gene Snyder Freeway and found myself counting crosses. Can you believe between a two mile stretch of road, there were 5 crosses. Now, if you know me, you know I do not mean any hard feelings when I ask... Are these symbols of religion or symbols of carelessness? (not meaning based on the person who died at that site, because it may have been anothers carelessness) I was driving down Smyrna Road earlier this year and saw this large beautiful cross with two people standing near it. They were obviously mourning the loss of a loved one, however, they were also pouring beer on the spot. It kinda reminded me of the sponge of vinegar that Jesus took while on the Cross, but I do not think that is what they were replicating. So, I ask.... Is the Cross symbol of Life? or Death?



Well, I think we need to look a little further.... You see some say that Jesus died on the Cross, which If you are Christian you know this to be true. Because Jesus' death on the Cross was the sacrifice for our sins. As John 3:16 so eloquently puts it. I ask that you look take a deeper, look at the Cross. The Cross may have meant death to Jesus (if you know the all the facts, you also know that this is not 100% true. Explain later), however, it meant life for everyone else. Per Colossians 2:13-15 (I will not make you look this up, but you should)

13When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. 15And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

So as you can see, the cross took life to give life. It continues to give life each day for those who will believe and accept the gift it offers.

So, I believe that the Cross is a symbol of life. A life with Christ. You see the Cross that Jesus was crucified on could not keep him, because three days later, he rose from the grave. Mark 6:6-7

6"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.' "

So why do so many mark the passing of their loved ones with crosses? The cross is a symbol of life, not of death. Of Joy, not of Sorrow. Of peace, not conflict. Of giving, not taking. Of light, not dark. Of forgiveness, not condemnation.

What do you see, when you look at the cross? I see the many nails that I own that have been hammered into my Savior. I see the blood pour out of an Innocent side that cleanses me. I see the power of forgiveness in the eyes of the blamelessness. I see the a sacrifice that I know that I am not worthy of, but it was made for me anyway.

Yes, the Cross is a symbol of life. The life that was given as another was taken.

May God bless you and keep you safe.