Symbols tell stories; deep, important, powerful stories. Not only do they capture our stories, the symbols we use proclaim our stories to the world.
For followers of Christ the cross tells the story of God’s sacrificial love. And yet the symbols of the cross are as rich and varied as those who tell its story. Every cross tells a story…
The simplest of crosses, without any accoutrements, the Latin Cross tells about the cross upon which Christ died. This and the Greek cross (arms of equal length) are the oldest and most common crosses.
The Celtic Cross, first found in Ireland and Scotland, symbolizes the traditional Latin cross with a circle in the middle that represents the sun, telling of the life-giving properties that come from the sun – and the Son.
The Russian Orthodox or Suppedaneum Cross depicts a cross with a bar representing the inscription placed over Christ’s head, as well as a bar where his feet were nailed; telling of mockery and torture.
St. Peter’s “upside down” Cross, which tells the story of St. Peter, who requested to be crucified with his head down because he was not worthy to die like his savior; the story of discipleship and humility.
The Crusader’s Cross recalls the painful story of misguided conquest in the name of the Prince of Peace, reminding us that even glorious gifts can be used for ill.
Because symbols tell of things that hold ultimate meaning, they have unparalleled power: we need to choose and use them wisely and well. Painful example: when modern day crusaders set burning crosses in front yards to ignite fear in their pursuit of personal power and control.
Especially as we focus on our most sacred and revered symbol this Lent, let us be ever more committed to use the power of the cross to build and bind community, and ever more vigilant that it never be used for anything less.
