New Symbols: Zion's Website Cross
What does the cross on the new website mean? This is a question I’ve been asked several times. The cross (featured at the top) was used as a new emblem for Zion. Something new in the spirit of us seeking a new mission and vision for our church. Something unmistakably Christian when encountered via our website, yet unique and meaningful.
The cross above is centered by a Greek-style cross with arms of equal length. This represents what Paul writes in Galatians 3:8: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
The cross enveloping the Greek-style cross represents Zion. Notice that the arms of the cross are in the shape of Zion’s nave. This is meant to represent that when we gather at Zion it is centered on Christ, but what happens in worship is meant to go out from that center in all directions.
The three arrows represent our mission statement: Live justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Jesus. Jesus is the center and is the power propelling us outward. Each of the arrows represents justice, mercy, and humility emanating forth from Jesus. This is symbolic of the work that Christ is doing and is planning to do in and through us in our ministry.
Finally, the three arrows also represent the Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, going forth in all directions, not only south, east, and west. This represents the Great Commission as Jesus’ words emphasize in Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
So not only is this missional language but Christ promises to be with us in this endeavor.
This symbol is certainly a mission-oriented, kingdom-minded cross that not only reminds us who we are but also reminds us that Jesus sends us out. “Therefore go.” He sends us out not alone, but with the power of the Holy Spirit working in and through us. He calls us also to lives of obedience and worship for we are “his workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works he has prepared in advance for us to do (Eph. 2:10).”
I for one can not wait to see what comes out of Vision Sunday on June 3rd. I think God has a lot of wonderful plans for us at Zion. After all, we’re placed in the heart of the city for a reason and that reason is even more substantial than the beautiful setting where we have the privilege to worship. God has plans. I have a feeling that they have something with us engaging with our past to inform our future.
In Christ,
Pastor Dan Hues
The Cross was designed by Adam Moser.