The PassionNäide

The cross - placed atop church steeples, hung over the mantle of the fireplace or on doorframes, worn as jewellery - has long been the principal emblem of the Christian faith and tradition. It recalls the crucifixion of Jesus. It's a perplexing paradox that the crucifix, a brutal instrument of torture and execution, has become a symbol of hope, salvation, and humanity's redemption.

As the apostle Paul writes, “the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18, NIV) The power isn’t in the planks of timber, but in the one who hung on it for our sake.

The jeers of the chief priests, scribes, and elders reveal the stark reality of the crucifixion. They taunt, "He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” (Matthew 27:42-43, ESV)

It is precisely because Jesus desires to save others that He does not save Himself and come down from the cross. He trusts in the will of the Father, knowing that God’s power is expressed through such weakness, pain, and suffering. This is the power of God that saves sinners and makes believers out of those who trust in our crucified Savior.

Today, ponder this: In what areas of your life are you relying on the wisdom of the world? How might the ‘foolishness’ of the cross challenge you to surrender that control over to Jesus? Pray to Jesus now, acknowledging that His ways are greater than our ways. May we remain humble before Him in that truth.