Thanks to my call as a church musician and a piano technician, I have the
privilege of visiting many area churches. I always enjoy seeing other
worship spaces. Some are old, others new. Some are plain while others are
elaborately decorated. Some have altar, pulpit, and pews set in their
places, but others have portable furniture so the room can be changed as
needed. Sometimes I see banners or posters that give a glimpse of a
congregation's belief on some particular aspect of theology or faith…that
belief might be much like our own at Salem, or it may be nearly opposite.
While visiting two DeKalb churches today, I realized one thing that is
present in almost every Christian church: the cross. One common symbol we
all share. All respect. All cherish. All worship. The crosses are as
different as the buildings and sanctuaries where they are found, with such
a variety of sizes, materials, and styles. But all remind their
congregation of God's great love…love so great that he gave his own son to
save the world.
Most crosses in our worship places are beautiful works of art. Craftsmen
and artists used their talents to create the best tribute they could for
their God and his church. But there was nothing beautiful about the cross
Jesus died on. Crucifixion was a terrible form of capital punishment. The
intent was to cause a slow, painful, agonizing, humiliating death. For the
victim and for any family or friends who stood by. It was public, not only
to be an example to discourage others from similar offenses, but also to
add to the humiliation as passers-by could stare or taunt the victim.
Crucifixion was a most shameful and disgraceful death.
Why, then, has the church claimed such a cruel, ugly object as a symbol of
our faith? Because the ugliness of the cross has been overcome by the
unimaginable love of God. Jesus loved us even to death. On a cross. He
willingly gave himself to die on the cross to save us for life with him.
It has been said it wasn't nails that held Jesus on the cross…it was love.
I want to think of the cross often this week. I want to be reminded of
Jesus' sacrifice. Of his love for me. And for you.
Ron Vanatta
This week at Salem:
Maundy Thursday Worship at 7 pm
Good Friday Tennebrae Service at 7 pm
Easter Vigil Worship of scripture, baptism, and communion Saturday at 5 pm
Easter Sunrise Worship at the Elmwood Cemetery Pavilion Sunday at 6 am;
followed by coffee at Ruff's home
Easter Festival Worship at 8 and 10:30 am
Easter Breakfast in Fellowship Hall at 9 am
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