Many people wear a cross on a necklace simply as an attractive piece of jewellery, whether they are ‘religious’ or not, others have one on a charm bracelet and indeed there are many worn as tattoos on arms and legs.
It’s an interesting thing to wear because although it may now be seen as a symbol of Christianity, it was actually a symbol of torture. In the days of Jesus, execution on a cross was one of the cruellest forms of punishment and no one would have thought it appropriate to wear one as jewellery.
So, what does the symbol of a cross mean to you?
There is a never more appropriate time to think about it. Because this week we are about to embark on the most important week for Christians. The week which started with Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem with cheers and palms and looks towards the events of the Crucifixion and Resurrection.
The cross means love to me. It shows that Jesus loved us so much that he was willing to die for us, making the cross which was an instrument of death into something that brings life and peace. The cross, is the bridge from death to life, a sign of the power God has to redeem life out of death.
Wearing a cross is an important symbol of faith for many Christians across the world. It reminds them of God’s presence. And is not simply an item of jewellery.
Every time you see a cross, remember what it really was - an instrument of execution. Then thank Jesus that He was willing to be crucified so that we can be forgiven. Jesus turned the cross into a place of great triumph where we can now have peace with God.