by Greg | Feb 20, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Cross Pattee This cross is easily recognized today and was a decorative cross widely used throughout Continental Europe. The Cross Pattee is not an “ancient” cross, first appearing during the medieval period. The cross comes in various forms, and I could not find much religious explanation behind it. Instead it was used as a show of political and military strength among the various European empires. It now has reached new popularity as a fashion symbol and can be found practically everywhere including clothing, jewelry and tattoos. Can the cross be too common? Or is this a symbol where the cross has been “co-opted” for our own purposes and uses? I suppose it all depends on how we really see, and take on the cross in our own walk. “May I never boast of anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” (Galatians 6:14) Prayer: Lord the Cross is terrifying and inspiring; the cross is ugly and beautiful; the cross is burdensome yet liberating. As you call on us to pick up the cross, may we also come to understand all its complexities and live faithfully in our earthly pilgrimage....
by Greg | Feb 19, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Passion Cross The Passion Cross is distinguished by the pointed ends on the arms. It is also known as the Cross of Suffering, Cross Urdee, or the Cross Champain. It is often used as a symbol for Maundy Thursday or Good Friday. Coupled with a chalice, the Passion Cross is symbolic of the agony of Gethsemane. Palm Sunday is also known as Passion Sunday where we remember not only Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, but the suffering he would face. It was a necessary journey that Jesus made alone, yet we too are called to deny self, pick up the cross and follow. “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.” (Matthew 26:39) Prayer: God of Gethsemane who weeps over our brokenness, look up our own tears and grant to us the fortitude to face our days of trial and temptation. And when we fall, we look to you for mercy and restoration....
by Greg | Feb 18, 2013 | Blog Posts
Cross and Orb Frequently adopted by Christian groups and mission societies, the Cross and Orb points to the sufficiency of Christ as Savior. The orb symbolizes the world, surmounted by the cross, symbolizing the triumph of the Savior over the sin of the world. It was John the Baptist who declared the truth, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29) Prayer: Remind me Blessed Savior that you have taken away not only the sins of the world, but my sin too. Remind me Lord of Salvation that I no longer have to bear the weight of the world. Grace me, Holy Redeemer, with the strength to love you by loving my neighbor in this world....
by Greg | Feb 17, 2013 | Blog Posts
Ankh Cross One of the most popular and well known crosses through the ages is the Ankh Cross and it is known by many names. Sometimes it is referred to as the Ansate Cross or Looped Cross, and is Egyptian in origin. As with many ancient symbols, it was taken over into Christian art and retained its ancient meaning of life and regeneration. For 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) Prayer: Forgive our clutching to power which only diminishes life – our own and others. Strengthen our hearts, Giver of Life, that we may look to the cross and see Your power, Your promise, and Your gift of eternal life....
by Greg | Feb 16, 2013 | Blog Posts
Chi Rho Cross This cross is one of the earliest symbols of Christian use. Using the Greek letters “X” or chi and “P” or rho, the Chi Rho Cross is a stylized monogram. It is the abbreviation of XPICTOC or “Christos”, the Greek word for Christ. Its shape also resembles the crook of a shepherd’s staff, which has a number of symbolic possibilities, including Jesus as the Good Shepherd. The symbol is one of my favorites because it serves as an apt reminder of my own calling as a shepherd to my congregations, bearing the yoke of Christ. “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me.” (John 10:14) Prayer:“Who am I? They mock me, these lonely questions of mine. Whoever I am, thou knowest, O God, I am thine.” – Dietrich...
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