The Cross

In Roman Times, crosses were used to execute usually the worst and lowliest of criminals.  People would be hung upon crosses with nails driven through their hands and feet, usually after having been severely beaten, and then they would be left hanging there to die.  Once sentenced to die upon a cross, all hope was abandoned.  Nothing was left but torture and death.  However, times have certainly changed.  The cross today is seen as just the opposite.  For Christians, it is the ultimate sign of hope.  It is the symbol of how God's son, Jesus Christ, paid the ultimate price for sins, thus allowing those who trust in Him to receive pardon and the assurance of being in the right standing with God.  People can receive salvation and the joy of spending an eternity in Heaven only through the sacrifice made be Jesus on The Cross.