Christ has Died, Christ is Risen

I'm always struck by the simplicity and beauty of the crucifix. In the Basilica of St. Mary in Krakow, the crucifix hangs between the first and second naves of the church. This gives you a unique vantage point. You can see the cross from both sides.

On one side hangs the crucified Christ. As you approach the altar from the back of the church, Christ's death is before you, calling you to receive his holy sacrifice present at the altar. As you turn and head to your seat before dismissal, you can glance up at the back of the cross (see image below). Christ is not present there - he is risen!

Isn't this always? Christ is perpetually crucified and perpetually risen. His sacrifice is outside of time. His sacrifice calls us to the altar, calls us to take in his crucified self. The joy of his death and resurrection - for that is what is truly special about Christ - he rose, he conquered death - sends us out into the world.

Today's Challenge:

Spend some time reflecting on the crucifix.

Reflection Questions:

1. What side of the crucifix do I tend to focus on? Christ crucified or Christ risen?

2. How are both sides of the crucifix significant in my life?