What Does that Cross Mean, Really?
7 People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. 9 Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. 10 And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!
James 3:7-10 (NLT)
WHAT DOES THAT CROSS MEAN, REALLY?
I was umpiring a Championship game for the 18U Division at a local park last week, when I noticed that several players on one of the teams had drawn crosses on their cheeks in eye black. I often see eye black used for a variety of facial graphics, including one kid they called “Robin,” who had so much of it painted on around his eyes that it looked like he was wearing a mask. Most of the time with these teens, it’s intended to make them look fierce and intimidating – like war paint. So, I was pleasantly surprised to see the crosses.
That is, until it became evident that the team was not going to win the game after unraveling on the mound and in the field late in the game. It was then that I heard these same kids – ones wearing the cross of Christ on their cheeks – begin to deride teammates with profanity that would make a sailor blush. One player screamed, “You’re so (bleeping) awful!” to his left fielder after that player booted a ball. A different player with the cross-cheeks exclaimed an F-bomb after grounding out to lead off the next inning.
Honestly, I’d be upset at the kids for talking this way whether or not they had crosses painted on. But, the cross made it worse. I actually felt a bit of sadness for the other kids who didn’t have crosses painted on. Who knows, they could know Jesus. But, for those who don’t – what do you think their collective impression of these self-proclaimed “Christians” was?
Whether you paint eye black on your face, have a Jesus fish on your car, have a WWJD bracelet on your wrist, or wear a necklace with a cross pendant, you should know that people do pay attention! I’m not saying you won’t mess up – we all will. But, we’ve got to stop wearing the cross as a fashion statement or just as a label that we’re “saved.” When we identify with Christ, we need to try to reflect his image in ALL areas of our lives: our speech, our attitude, our behavior, our work ethic, and especially our heart for lost people who need Jesus!
Otherwise, just leave the eye black in your bag.
C.A. Phillips has served on staff at NorthStar Church since 2004, and has more than 35 years of baseball experience as a player, coach, and umpire. He and his wife, Amy, have two adult sons and live in Kennesaw with their German Shepherd, Abby.
