Tag: crucifix

Why the Crucifix?

We all know that a cross symbolizes Christianity . We could write a book about the depth of its meanings. But why the crucifix? Why the depiction of a man who was clearly tortured, beaten and whipped, nailed hand and foot to a wooden cross with a crown of horrible thorns on his head and blood dripping from his side? Shouldn’t that elicit a morbid response from us or anyone. Why would we display such a thing?? 

I have had the same one my whole life. As long as I can remember, it hung in my room as a child , came with me to college and every apartment I ever had.  For the last 30+ years it hangs over my and Mom’s bed. 

When I see a crucifix, wherever it may be, I can honestly say that I always have a reaction. It’s different then seeing just a cross, which certainly carries beautiful meanings, but its different.

Sometimes I’ll look at the crucifix and see our Lord hanging there and I am filled with gratitude, so thankful for my blessings. Its like when something great happens, maybe an answer to a prayer, I’ll look up to the one in my office or anywhere in our house and just say thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

Sometimes, when I see the crucifix, it reminds me of the trials and tribulations in my life. Everyone has trials, everyone. And the cross that He is nailed to represents them. ” Please help me with….” , ” Please take care of…” , ” Please guide me with…”. Deep in my core I know that especially Jesus, hanging from this cross feels, knows all that is in my heart.  And this gives me some sense of peace.

Sometimes, I’ll look up at our Lord hanging there and wonder what wound was caused by me? He suffered the Passion for all of our sins, for every human being that will ever exist. Which one was mine? Was it the nail in his hand?  Or maybe one of the thorns sticking into his scalp? My heart is filled with sorrow and remorse. How many times have I said to myself or outloud while looking at Him, “I’m so sorry Jesus. “

But even in those moments there is a sense of peace that follows.  Just a fraction of a moment during a busy day maybe. But to me there is almost always a sense of joy and really hope. Because it didn’t end with Him hanging on the cross. No. He defeated death. He defeated death to save me.  To give me a chance to be with Him forever. There is no Resurrection without  his death on that cross. 

What does the Crucifix mean to me? Love.  That he loves me and  all of you so much  that he gave his life so that we may be with Him in heaven. Forever.