Wearing My Cross (Literally)

I made a recent purchase at one of those super exciting festivals with mostly girl stuff. But I had been looking for something like this for a long time and was pretty excited when I found it.

I don't like to make assumptions, but I do anticipate some things, negative feedback in this case. So my anticipated negative feedback:

1. "The Bible says it's a shame for a man to dress like a woman and necklaces are feminine clothing."

2. "You think it brings you some kind of special power, don't you?"

3. "It will offend some people."

4. (Insert whatever else, comment if you think of any other objections)

Now I'll actually tell you why I wear it.

1. The Bible talks about Jews tying Scripture around their foreheads and such. This is my way of doing that. Having the cross hanging around my neck serves as a constant reminder to me of what Christ did in my life. (side note: honestly, I think it clearly looks unfeminine.)

2. I wear it as a testimony to the world. There are people who I pass by but will never be able to talk to. I wear it so that those who don't know me and don't get to talk to me will hopefully identify me with Christ. It is a simple way of being unashamed of the Gospel. And if I do get into a conversation with someone, it's a great tool to point someone towards the Cross.

3. There was also a reason I chose those specific colors. Sometimes in America, I think we start thinking we have a monopoly on Christianity. Or maybe that specifically white independent Baptists have a monopoly on Christianity. We would never say that. Obviously. But the way we live sometimes contradicts what we say. I chose black and white to remind myself that the Gospel is for everyone. I need Jesus just as much as the next African, Asian, islander, whatever (and women). The same Gospel power in me is the same as what my mom, dad, brothers and sisters have. The problem for Christians is that we sometimes get the idea that we are the Gospel when in reality Jesus is the Gospel. We are only presenters. These colors remind me of our equality in Christ.

I am quite aware that my wearing of this cross may offend some people. Two part response: For offended Christians, I would remind you that as it says in Romans, the Gospel is not a matter of meat or drink (or clothing). To avoid causing division however, I would politely remove it without making a big deal. For offended non-Christians, I would not remove it. Why? The Gospel is naturally offensive to those who don't accept it. People must be confronted with reality to understand it. (side note: for dress codes such as in a job or at school restricting wearing things like this, I wouldn't wear it in the spirit of obedience to authority. Wearing it is not essential to Christianity, only a help.)

I'm open to discussion. Polite discussion of course. And I hope those that see me wear it will think of what I've just said. But mostly that they think of the Gospel.

-RST