The Cross

An execution indicates that a relationship has gone really bad. Whether the electric chair, lethal injection, or crucifixion---they all symbolize that an unsalvageable relationship among humankind has taken place. The person doesn’t deserve to live among other people. The person dying cannot be rehabilitated. The person dying is unfit to have relations to other humans. An old-rugged cross, empty as it may be, symbolizes a relationship gone bad. One had to die. The guilty party is the one that dies in Capital Punishment. Yet, that is not the way it was for Jesus. Next time one considers the fairness of God, consider that God the Father had his innocent Son die on the cross for the guilty party---us. He who knew no sin was made sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Next time you see a cross (count them today, because you will see them on arms, necklaces, earrings, etc.) think about how God made possible the reconciliation of man back to Himself. God demonstrated his love in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Where would you be without the cross? Now, the old-rugged cross can represent a relationship gone good. You have a stake in it. Thankful? Apathetic?