Preparation for Easter...

I made a Cross today as part of the preparations for Easter Week and the services to come on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

I've made a number of Crosses over the years - some 'larger-the-life' and some small enough to hold in your hand.  Several have eventually adorned the walls of Churches I have had the privilege of serving.  The Cross at Mt Roskill was made out of some of the beams from the old building which was demolished to make way for the new.  Likewise at Mitcham the large, heavy, Australian hardwood Cross was constructed from beams salvaged from the old site before the move to the factory in Simla Street.

This new Cross was made from some old Oregon rafters given to me by a good friend whose wife is recovering from cancer...

Each Cross has had special meaning and significance above and beyond its inherent symbolism.  Making these Crosses has often been a reflective exercise as I try and keep the craftsmanship simple.  The very making helps remind me of the carpenter turned Saviour who also worked with his hands crafting timber in his younger years.

I left the Cross on the front lawn after taking this picture... One of our neighbours stopped and asked what it was for - she attends a Greek Orthodox Church who have services every day this coming week (Hard work for the priests, I reckon!)  After talking for a while I decided to leave the Cross where it stood -  seemed to be an appropriate reminder as we prepare to begin the Passion Week with Palm Sunday services tomorrow!