The Rugged Cross

2PP Weekly Blog for week of 26 April - 2 May 2025

A driftwood cross by Lake Michigan

Here in Wisconsin, when we have the opportunity to travel to the water’s edge, we often encounter the talent of others being displayed. We’ve found all manner of sculptures, structures, and creative decorations formed on the sand out of pieces of driftwood. On this particular Spring day, we found this Cross. I loved how it seemed to create a version of a sundial on the sand. 

It was a simple, humble Cross, 

Formed from driftwood.

But it reminded me,

Of the steps of Jesus,

From another place and time.

I was carried in mind’s eye,

To the Sea of Galilee.

I thought of my Savior’s dusty feet, 

Of His miracles, mission,

And the teachings of His ministry.

I remembered all that He endured,

Close-up of a driftwood cross by Lake Michigan

Upon Calvary’s tree.

And I thought of the waves,

Of grace that wash over us,

When we open our hearts,

To His saving forgiveness,

And resurrection power. 

I was thankful for this simple, artful sculpture.

But I am forever grateful,

For the mercy and loving-kindness,

Of my Lord, Messiah, and Abba Daddy.

Ephesians 1:7 AMP: “In Him we have redemption [that is, our deliverance and salvation] through His blood, [which paid the penalty for our sin and resulted in] the forgiveness and complete pardon of our sin, in accordance with the riches of His grace.”

1 Corinthians 1:18 NKJV: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

1 Peter 2:24 VOICE: “He took on our sins in His body when He died on the cross so that we, being dead to sin, can live for righteousness. As the Scripture says, ‘Through His wounds, you were healed.’”

Titus 3:5 NASB: “He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we did in righteousness, but in accordance with His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit.”

1 Peter 1:18-21 VOICE: “You know that a price was paid to redeem you from following the empty ways handed on to you by your ancestors; it was not paid with things that perish (like silver and gold), 19 but with the precious blood of the Anointed, who was like a perfect and unblemished sacrificial lamb. 20 God determined to send Him before the world began, but He came into the world in these last days for your sake. 21 Through Him, you’ve been brought to trust in God, who raised Him from the dead and glorified Him for the very reason that your faith and hope are in Him.”

The Cross of Calvary was formed from a rugged tree more than 2000 years ago. The one I found by the water was only a creative replica of its form. Yet, it was a precious reminder of the flood of God’s love that comes in wave after wave to those who call upon His name. Both crosses are gifts of God’s artistry, His majesty. By accepting His offer of mercy and forgiveness, we walk in the shadow of His grace. Has His life-giving tide cleansed you? 

Worth the Pause: Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 2:24, Hebrews 12:2, Philippians 2:8

by: deborah goshorn-stenger 2 Pause and Praise Creations ©