I Corinthians 1:18-31
I was 12 years old when I was baptized. I remember saying the words “Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior” and then being lowered into the water. Another thing I remember about that day is receiving a gold cross necklace from my parents to mark this important occasion in my life. At that time, I didn’t really understand the symbolism of the cross. I just knew that my necklace was shiny and pretty. I wore the cross to church every Sunday for many years without ever considering the significance of what I was wearing. Now, it sits in my jewelry box as a reminder of that day so many years ago. I look at it every so often, but rarely do I stop to ponder the significance of the cross and the sacrifice it symbolizes.
Today’s scripture says, “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). As I look at the cross today, I don’t see it as just something pretty to wear around my neck. I know that believing in the power of the cross sets me apart from others who see the cross as foolish or merely a decoration. During this Lenten season, I challenge you to think about what the cross symbolizes for you.
Prayer: Dear God, please help me to be more aware of the power of the cross and the sacrifice which it symbolizes. Amen.
Melanie Gray