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"For the message of the Cross
is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saves
it is the power of God."
(1 Corinthians 1:18)
THE CROSS has been the most important
symbol for the Christian church since Good Friday. It forms the perfect
backdrop to the Lord's Supper since the elements represent His body and
blood given upon the Cross. Paul calls the "cross of Christ" the
essence of the Gospel which makes the this symbol a most appropriate
backdrop to the pulpit as well.
THIS RENDERING OF THE CROSS was
designed by a former pastor because of its bold subtleness. The
walnut-stained cherry wood against the near-white walls makes an immediate
impact, while the use of negative space introduces an element of mystery
and offers a less obvious effect than a traditional cross.
You may notice that the image seems to
leap from the wall in glorious triumph as you focus your eye on the white
cross suggested by the wooden shadow.
Because of the optical illusion created,
one might not immediately see the intended image. This in itself is a
parable of an individual's "discovery" of the Christ of the
Cross. When one is enlightened by God through regeneration to see and
embrace Jesus, there is movement from darkness to light, ignorance to
sight. One may experience the analogous sensation when first gazing upon
the form of the cross.
Another phenomenon common to many
lookers at this cross is that once having "seen" the intended
reverse image, it is often difficult ( if not impossible) to "not
see" it. Similarly, since the "gifts and the calling of God are
irrevocable," (Romans 11:29) once one "sees" the glory of
God in the face of Christ, one cannot "unsee" it. Eternal sight
has been given.
It is our prayer that this cross will be
a comfort and a goal to all who worship here and live beneath the shadow
of the cross of our Lord Jesus. |