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What the Cross Means: Crucifying the World, Embracing God, and Crossing Out the Past

 

What the Cross Means: Crucifying the World, Embracing God, and Crossing Out the Past

"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." Galatians 6:14 (KSB)

   The cross is the central image of the Christian faith. It crowns the rooftops of churches, adorns sanctuaries, and rests around the necks of believers worldwide. Whether it’s the empty cross or the crucifix, the symbol remains a powerful reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the foundation of our faith. Songs like "At Calvary," "Near the Cross," and "The Old Rugged Cross" continue to declare its significance. Having stood at Calvary’s foot in Israel at the very place where Jesus was crucified. I can testify to the power of that sacred ground. But beyond the physical symbol, Jesus invites us to carry our own cross. He said, “If anyone would follow Me, let him take up his cross and follow Me.” Each of us must decide. What does the cross mean to me?

   In Galatians 6:14, Paul gives us a personal perspective. He sees the cross as the point where the world is crucified to him, and he to the world. That old way of life the one without God is no longer an option. The lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, the pride of life? Dead to him. The cross, for Paul, meant a permanent severance from the world system and a complete devotion to God. For some, the cross is also a tool of transformation, a place where error thoughts are crossed out. Limiting beliefs, toxic mindsets, faulty perceptions: all can be eliminated in the light of divine truth. Through scripture, affirmation, and prayer, we can cross out anything that no longer aligns with God’s best for us. The cross becomes a place of choice of renewal and rebirth.

   And then there is the relational symbolism of the cross. The vertical beam represents our relationship with God. I love God, and God loves me. Nothing can separate us from that love. The meeting point in the center of the cross reminds us to love ourselves, to forgive ourselves, and to see ourselves through God's eyes. And the horizontal beam calls us to love one another: every man as a brother, every woman as a sister, every child as our own.

   To love God, to love myself, to love others this is the power of the cross in daily life. So, what does the cross mean to you?

                                                     

Silhouette of a cross on Calvary at sunset, symbolizing Christ's sacrifice

📖 Reflection: What old patterns or beliefs do you need to crucify at the cross today?

💡 Action Step: Take time to pray and reflect on Galatians 6:14. Write down what the cross means to you, and ask God to help you live that meaning daily.

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