Lift High The Cross
Today sacred history continued unabated. Today God's people did what God's people have always done: erect sacred icons of their faith. Images that preach the gospel day in and day out without saying a single word. And speaking of sacred images, there is none higher than the crucifix. It is the visual icon of the holy Christian faith. It is our life and salvation. It is our confidence in the face of sin, death and the evil inspired by the devil himself. It gives us joy in good times, and consolation in trouble. Because Jesus died, we will live. Live eternally. Because our crucified Lord also rose again, conquering death and the grave, all who place their confidence in him, and in him alone for their salvation will not be disappointed.
I could say much about the faith, hope, love an dedication of many people in making this crucifix a reality. I could speak of many hundreds of skilled volunteer man hours given (today alone apprroximatley 150 man hours -- all labors of love). But it's best to speak of the surge of blessings that God has bestowed upon Christ Lutheran Church, so that she might worship her God in Spirit and Truth (John 4:24), and so that she might bring light into the world of darkness. As Scripture says: God loved the world in this way, he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved." (John 3:16-17).
You are that world.
And so: believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. You and your house. (Acts 16:30).
Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise him all creatures here below. Praise him above ye heanvenly hosts. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.
Tomorrow in the prayers of the church we will give thanks for this blessing, and next Sunday, September 17th, the Feast of the Holy Cross, we will formally dedicate it to the glory of God and the blessing of his people. You are those people.
Come and rejoice with us tomorrow, or next Sunday for the formal dedication. And if next Sunday plan to stay for our annual church picnic.
"For I determined to know nothing among you except Christ and him crucified." (1 Corinthians 2:2).
More in Pastor's Blog
Christian Knowledge Is Wanting
Justification On Steroids
Pride (month) Precedes Destruction
Leave a Comment