By Nancy Virden (c)2020
I was asked this by a yelling man demanding an answer. Generally, I ignore people who yell at me, nonetheless, his question is intriguing.
I know two reasons why I celebrate the cross of Christ: my Savior died there; and he is no longer there.
Christianity has deep roots in Judaism. Long, long ago, Hebrew people sacrificed perfect, unblemished animals in worship to God. These animals stood-in for the one offering the sacrifice, “covering” the person’s sin.
Christians depart from Judaism in that we believe the promised Savior (the Jews’ Messiah) already came. Jesus fulfilled hundreds of prophecies concerning the promised One, and then he did something extraordinary. He performed the final sacrifice by willingly dying on the cross, covering the sins of all who believe.
Why do people of these faiths care about sins? We acknowledge God’s authority, that is why. Some people say they believe, but treat him like a genie or nice idea. Sincere and devoted members of the Jewish and Christian faiths (not just anyone who calls themselves a Jew or a Christian and ignores basic tenets), know in their hearts that the Holy God as described in the Old Testament is very real.
As for the thin chasm between us, Christians place faith in the Anointed One who came 2000 years ago, died, was buried, and three days later rose to life. That is why his story does not end at the crucifixion.
We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.
Romans 3:22-23 nlt
We celebrate the cross because he made us right with God. We have nothing to fear in death because God gives us eternal life. At present, we can live in complete joy by obeying the Old Testament commands found in today’s helpful word below.
This particular cross is where everything changed for those who believe.
Today’s Helpful Word
Matthew 22: 37-40 niv
Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.
*** COMMENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.
If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.
If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!
Always the Fight 