The cross is a tree set on fire with the love of God and for thousands of years people have been drawn to it’s warmth and light.

We’re back at the paradox with which we began. Only those who humble themselves will be exalted. But if we press this further we discover a paradox within the paradox. You can’t try to be humble.

Sin is a power that dehumanizes us, makes us like the animals, robs us of the dignity of being a human made in the image of God. We are made to look upwards to heaven but sin drags us down into the earth. And this is a burden.

The calling of every Christian is to be a saint. What does that mean? It means that God is calling you to entrust your life to him and allow the fire of God’s love to set you ablaze. It is hard work, to be a saint. But it is primarily God’s doing and, moreover, you are not alone in that pursuit.

When Jesus comes near to you, and takes away your sin, and gives you a new identity there is no longer a need for anything but faith in him. There is nothing you can contribute but love, to come and sit at his feet and allow him to tell you who you are, not Legion but child and heir. This is what it means to be free.