Lift High the Cross!

LIFT HIGH THE CROSS

By Rev. Dr. Marjorie Nunes

Hicksville UMC, Hicksville NY

The songwriter penned these words:

Lift High the Cross,

The love of Christ Proclaim

Til all the world adore

His sacred name.

 

The cross of Jesus Christ has always given me comfort, hope, assurance and so much more. Often times as I travel to other parts of the world I look for the cross – on a church – on a building, anywhere. Especially when I go on mission trips/journey. I am encouraged, frankly excited that there is a cross to be seen. My soul shouts out, “Someone knows Jesus, the Savior of the whole world, in this place”.

But this was not so when we landed in Osaka Japan. Yes, I know that the Christianity is practiced by only 1-2% of the population, the main religions are: Shinto and Buddhism.

Yet I wanted to see a cross – to see a church – to see the flame and cross. But there was none to be seen. Of course, I had on my cross – other members had on their cross, but where was the cross of Jesus Christ in the community? Where was the symbol of hope – of love – of redemption – of salvation for all humanity?

Of course, I know that I am biased and single minded when it comes to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. I want the world – the whole world – to know Christ wherever I go is my goal – my heart’s desire.

So, when we arrived in Hiroshima on the 5^th day of our trip for Sunday Service, I was filled with holy anticipation. And there it was at the front of the church “the empty cross of Jesus Christ”. I wanted to run over and cling to that “Old Rugged Cross”. Then as we entered the sanctuary there were two other crosses on the altar; a newer cross, and another cross that was made by the surviving A-bomb wooden structure found in the rubble of the former chapel. Hallelujah! The cross of Jesus Christ lifted high for all to see! All was well! There were three crosses visible – my soul began to sing:

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross

Where my trophies at last I lay down,

I will cling to the old rugged cross,

And exchange it someday for a crown.

Yes, the Christians of Japan are a small minority, but in their own unique way – in keeping with their context/social location, they are ‘lifting high the cross’. Thus we who are their sisters and brothers in Christ in America, will continue to pray for them and with them. When one Christian in Japan lifts up the cross of Jesus Christ, we will in one spirit and in prayer carry the cross with them. I will stand firmly with Christians everywhere, and I will continue to pray for the people of Japan that the entire nation will come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

May the Peace of Christ rest and abide with us all until Christ returns. Amen