Hope In the Cross

It has been nearly 20 years since 9-11.  I still remember images of a cross made by two structural support beams that remained amidst the rubble in the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the twin towers in New York City.   St. Paul’s Chapel Trinity Church stands within a block from the site of ground zero. It was spared amidst crashing debris while a tree beside it was hit. The mammoth limbs of the century old sycamore tree fell within inches of the structure but it miraculously remained intact and undisturbed.  It was used as a resting place for rescue workers during the crisis and later became a place throngs of people went to mourn the nearly 3000 souls that were lost during the attack.  Both serve as memorials to this day of the tragedy but also are reminders of the grace of God during times of despair.

Once I had a neighbor who put a cross out in his yard each Easter. It was covered with flowers and symbolized the joy of the resurrection of Christ. I looked forward to the beautiful display each year. It was a symbol of hope in Christ.

This week is Holy Week. Christians are not able to attend houses of worship due to the pandemic from the Coronavirus.  However, we don’t need buildings to worship in and reflect on the sacrifice of Christ during His crucifixion on the cross.  If we turn to the news, the reports are not encouraging.  The death tolls of those suffering from the virus are rising. There is no good news in the world right now.

The cross still stands out as a beacon for those who believe in Christ’s transforming power of salvation during our current crisis. Pray a simple prayer and Christ will save you. Confess your sins and ask Him to come into your heart. You too can know this hope in Him.