 The cross-shaped sign, represented in its simplest form by a crossing of two lines at right angles, greatly antedates, in both East and West, the introduction of Christianity. It goes back to a very remote period of human civilization. It is supposed to have been used not just for its ornamental value, but also with religious significance.
In Christianity the cross reminds Christians of God’s act of love in Christ’s sacrifice at Calvary—”the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” The cross also reminds Christians of Jesus’ victory over sin and death, since it is believed that through His death and resurrection He conquered death itself. They venerate it not as a material object seen in isolation but as the symbol of the sacrifice by which Christ saved them, as the instrument of Christ’s triumph We in turn hope for our own eventual transformation from these earthly bodies to heavenly spirit, from pain and suffering to comfort, from confusion and worry to understanding, and from struggle to surrender. As we look upon this symbol, we hope and pray that our lives continue to be worthy of God’s loving embrace. |
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