Why the Cross Matters

Have you ever wondered why Christians chose the cross—a symbol of brutal execution—as the centerpiece of their faith? Walk into any church, anywhere in the world, and you'll see not a manger or even an empty tomb, but a cross. But why?

The answer lies in understanding what the cross truly represents. It's not just an event in history—it's the message of eternity.

Mark's Gospel presents the crucifixion of Jesus with haunting simplicity: "And they crucified Him." There's no detailed description, no graphic imagery, just these powerful words repeated to emphasize their gravity.

Crucifixion was common, cruel, and designed to inflict maximum pain and humiliation. It was reserved for the worst criminals. And yet, this was how Jesus died. Why? Because it vividly demonstrates the seriousness of our sin. The Bible says clearly, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Our sin has real consequences—death and eternal separation from God. As Romans 6:23 emphasizes, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

The cross wasn't a tragic accident; it was the deliberate plan of God. Jesus willingly took our place, absorbing the punishment we deserved. He bore our sin, endured our shame, and faced God's wrath so that we wouldn't have to. Everything Jesus suffered on that cross was intentional—His scourging, the crown of thorns, the nails—all for you and me.

The cross isn't merely a symbol of suffering; it's a declaration of God's extraordinary love. Romans 5:8 captures it beautifully: "But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." God's love is not conditional on our goodness or performance; He loves us precisely at our worst.

When Jesus stretched out His arms on the cross, He wasn't just dying—He was demonstrating. It was the loudest "I love you" ever spoken. Jesus didn't have to die; He chose to. His love held Him there, not the nails. This love is not superficial or sentimental. It's sacrificial, deep, and life-changing. The cross perfectly symbolizes the width of God’s love and the height of His holiness. 

But the story of the cross doesn't end in death; it triumphs in resurrection. Mark chapter 16 describes women visiting Jesus' tomb, only to find the stone rolled away and the grave empty. An angel declares, "He is risen."

Mark 16:6 - "And he said unto them, “Be not afraid. Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. Behold the place where they laid Him."

Jesus was crucified and died—but He didn’t stay dead. His resurrection changed everything. It shattered the power of sin, transformed suffering into splendor, and turned despair into hope. The cross wasn't the end; it was just the beginning of the greatest movement in history.

Today, when you look at the cross, don't just see wood and nails. See your sin being forgiven, your guilt being lifted, and your eternity secured. Yes, "they crucified Him," but He rose victorious, offering new life and a personal relationship with anyone who trusts in Him.

So don’t walk past the cross. Come to it. Let it change you forever.