For centuries the cross has gone forth as a symbol of the phenomenal appearance, death and resurrection of the very son of God, Jesus Christ.  A favorite form of torture and execution for the Romans, Jesus’ demise on this device thrust the icon of the two intersecting lines into history forever.  From the staff that precedes the Pope in procession to the jewel-studded piece around the rapper’s neck, the cross is a constant reminder of that single event, recognized worldwide.  For many it represents the possibility of change here and hope for the hereafter.

So why did he have to die?  The short answer is that he didn’t.  He told his disciples that, at a moment’s notice, he could have more than twelve legions of angels at his disposal (Matthew 26:53).  But then that would not accomplish what he set out to do.

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