How precious the gift of the cross

Posted by tom | Apr 4, 2007

Have I mentioned the Pontificator to you? [note: the site appears to now be down, but the archives, e.g., the link given for Holy Week still functioning] Take some to meditate upon the quotes given as part of the Holy Week series

 

How precious the gift of the cross, how splendid to contemplate! In the cross there is no mingling of good and evil, as in the tree of paradise: it is wholly beautiful to behold and good to taste. The fruit of this tree is not death but life, not darkness but light. This tree does not cast us out of paradise, but opens the way for our return.

This was the tree on which Christ, like a king on a chariot, destroyed the devil, the lord of death, and freed the human race from his tyranny. This was the tree upon which the Lord like a brave warrior wounded in hands, feet and side, healed the wounds of sin that the evil serpent had inflicted on our nature. A tree once caused our death, but now a tree brings life. Once deceived by a tree, we have now repelled the cunning serpent by a tree. What an astonishing transformation! . . . -- St Theodore the Studite (758-826)

Two pieces which I have found of helpful when considering current events in the Anglican Communion are

Can the 39 Articles Function as a Confessional Standard for Anglicans Today? by William J. Tighe, Ph.D.
Anglicanism by Alvin Kimel

Disclaimer:  Although I have found these articles, and others posted on the site, of interest in exploring issues in the Body of Christ and even my own devotional life, I do not come at the issues explored from the same direction or come to all of the same conclusions as given by the Pontificator (and friends). As always, read with discernment and return to the Word of God (Son), the Voice of God (Holy Spirit), and the people of God as they have been guided by the gracious care of God the Father through the ages and into the age to come. 

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