Moving Toward Easter

Brittany (my youngest daughter) and I were grabbing a quick sandwich this past Saturday at Jersey Mike's in Cool Springs. As we were walking down the line telling the guy behind the counter what we wanted on our sandwiches he complimented the jewelry hanging around Britt's neck. Britt said she gets compliments on it all the time.

It is a special piece of jewelry for Britt for several reasons. 1) It was a high school graduation gift, 2) It was a gift from her grandparents (Nana and Papa), 3) It was handmade combining stones from her greatgrandmother, her grandmother, and her mom 4) it is a cross.

I began to think of the irony of the young man complimenting her cross. How far we have come in history. At one time the cross was seen as the most cruel instrument of death known to mankind. Today, it is a piece of jewelry to be admired. Don't get me wrong. I am certainly not saying we are not to wear them. On the contrary. They make great conversation starters with people who have no idea of its significance.

I can remember as a young teen walking with my Dad in Daytona Beach along the boardwalk in the mid 70's. Seemed everyone was wearing them. My Dad was / is bold about his faith and always looking for a way to share Christ. I can't tell you how many conversations he started with people that did not understand the significance of the cross, yet wore them around the necks or had them tatooed into their skin.

The cross is the single most recognizable and significant symbol of our Christian faith. We are swiftly moving toward that time of year we think more about the cross of our Lord and the events surrounding it than any other time of year.

Each time you see a cross between now and March 23, let it stir your heart to remember the sacrifice paid on our behalf 2000+ years ago. Let it remind you of the depth of God's love for us that would drive Him to send His only Son that whoever would trust in Him for salvation would know eternal life. And if the cross you see is being worn by someone ask them what it means to them. Then invite them to the celebration of a risen Savior for Easter Services.