Read: Luke 23:26-38
The people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him. (v. 35)
The Sanford Clock had been a focal point of the community for years. Its letters proudly beamed “Welcome to Sanford!” Nothing fancy, but a warm hometown reminder that the residents cared about each other and Sanford deserved its spot on the map. Many had looked up to that sign for decades. Until the flood. Now it was gone.
Just over 2,000 years ago, Jesus was crucified. He was accused of treason and brought before the high priest. Ultimately, he was brought before Pontius Pilate. Publicly and torturously, he visibly hung on the shameful heights of a wooden cross. Some looked up and laughed. Others looked up and walked by with disdain. But still others looked up and became lifelong followers of the King of kings. We are, today, inheritors of the faith because their hearts and eyes were opened when they gazed upon that cross.
A simple town clock hardly compares to the crucifixion of Jesus. Or does it? In Sanford, the simple gesture of reinstalling that clock was meant to remind folks about the importance of community and family. To some, it is nothing more than electronics and circuitry, a digital timepiece. To others, however, it means that you are loved and you belong here. When we look at the cross, God invites us to see him for who he is, to see ourselves as beloved and belonging to him. What do you see? —Tammy DeRuyter
As you pray, look up! Ask God to give you eyes to see the King of kings!
About the Author
Tammy DeRuyter is a former stockbroker turned student of theology and history. She holds master’s degrees in both from Fuller Theological Seminary and Central Michigan University. Married for more than 25 years to Michael, an ordained RCA pastor, they have three emerging, young adult children ages 20, 21, and 22—the youngest of whom was adopted at 11.
