The very centerpiece of human history is the cross. With the coming of Jesus Christ God split time in half, and it was the cross (and His perfect life leading up to it and His resurrection and ascension following it) that signaled this cosmic, time-altering event. Thus the cross becomes the centerpiece of our individual lives as well, or at least it should be.

The cross is what brings redemption to our lives. It was through the cross that Jesus absorbed God’s wrath against sin. He took our place so that we could have a place with the Father in heaven. We call this the obstruction of justice. Jesus said,

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45 [emphasis added])

Jesus rushed out, faced sin full on, and destroyed its penalty and power over our lives. He did this by sacrificing Himself on the cross. That is the gospel and the gospel changes everything.

Those who are saved have a new life to live, and the cross teaches us how to live that life. The cross-centered life is one of sacrifice and redemption.

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God. Who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

“Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24)

This is the type of life Floyd Ferguson (“Papa”) lived. He put others before self and loved Jesus above all, and his conversations were filled with redemption as He shared His love for Jesus with anyone around. During the last several years of his life Toy Elder became a close friend, and Toy saw this cross-centeredness. As God was prompting Toy and Gale to do something in memory of this dear friend, they thought of the cross. On Sunday, December 29, 2013 the Hoovers unveiled a cross the Elders commissioned to be built in memory of Mr. Ferguson.

It is the most amazing cross I’ve ever seen. It is a wonderful addition to the auditorium and will stand as a centerpiece to remind us of the great price Jesus paid to redeem us. It will also encourage us to live how Jesus called us to live – taking up our cross and following Him, just like Papa Ferguson did.

You just have to come by and see it.

Grace & Peace,

Scott