Article April 9, 1960 Issue

TAKE UP THE CROSS

OLIVE H. HENRY

In the New Testament the cross is used as a symbol of self-sacrifice in some instances, and at the time of Constantine the cross became the symbol of the Christian religion. Because of its use in the crucifixion of Christ Jesus, Christians also associate the cross with sorrow, tragedy, and suffering. Christian Science explains that we must not regard the cross merely as an instrument of punishment, inflicting suffering. It has a far deeper meaning than this.

In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mary Baker Eddy writes (p.15), "We must resolve to take up the cross, and go forth with honest hearts to work and watch for wisdom, Truth, and Love." In the watch for wisdom, Truth, and Love there can be no crucifixion; wisdom, Truth, and Love can unfold their treasures only with intelligence, grace, and spiritual energy. Then we must have an expectancy of revelation, an assurance of the ever-presence of good.

In this certainty of good, we do not disregard the demands of the cross. We must not merely voice metaphysical truths; we must demonstrate them. It is not a matter of saying the truth; we must live it.

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