For the message of 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
A few weeks ago, Stephanie and I travelled to Sterling, Kansas to visit her sister Heather and family. Earlier that day, the family’s 90-year-old farmhouse was lost in an electrical fire. No people were hurt but most of their belongings were destroyed. We went simply to show our love and offer our support during their time of need and hurt.
While walking through the charred remains, we saw a burned wooden cross still hanging on the wall. Heather told us the cross was built from wood salvaged during the May 2013 tornado in Moore.
In the midst of all the debris and mess, the words of a Newsboys 2017 song came to mind (check it out on iTunes):
The cross has the final word
Sorrow may come in the darkest night
But the cross has the final word
As I prayed for our loved ones to find healing and hope, I could not help but think about the debris and mess that comes to all of us in life. Whether a health or job crisis, challenging relationships at work or home, or the contemplation of our own mortality, we have a constant reminder of God’s all-consuming love and saving power. Every time we see a cross, we remember that Jesus lived, died, and was resurrected so that we can experience life here on earth and life eternal.
No fire can consume the love that God has demonstrated to us. In fact, Paul reminded us in Romans 8 that “Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus!” As you think about God’s love for you during this season of Lent, give Him thanks and praise for His provision and for knowing how our stories will end. The cross really does have the final word!
– Rev. Phil Greenwald, Executive Pastor of Administration
