All newborn servants of the Crucified
bear on their brows the seal of him who died.
Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
till all the world adore his sacred name.
(“Lift High the Cross,” verse 2 and refrain)
Scripture Connection: John 3:14-16
Jesus said, “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”
Art Card Prompt
Jesus is referencing an incident in Exodus when Moses lifted up a serpent on a staff, at God’s direction, as a form of healing for afflicted Israelites. In the same way, Jesus will be lifted on the cross as a source of healing for all creation, an act of God’s infinite love for the world. This verse of “Lift High the Cross” makes a connection between the moment of baptism and the cross. At baptism, Christians are marked with the sign of the cross, a sign which we say remains on them forever, throughout their lives. It is a continual source of healing and hope. As you create your art card, reflect on what the baptismal sign of the cross means for you. How does your life “lift high the cross” and display your commitment to the mission of God, to which you are called through baptism. You might add some baptismal images, like water or sea shells or a dove, to your card this week.