he cross of Christ means different things to many people. We wear it as jewelry, we adorn buildings with it. We put it on the tops of steeples to let the world know of our commitment to Jesus. Of course we all know that the real cross wasn't pretty, or smooth. Those who saw the real thing also saw different meaning in what they observed that day with Jesus hanging there. The Jews saw it very differently than Jesus' followers or even the Romans who participated in His death. What does the cross mean to you?

The twelfth chapter of John's gospel tells of Jesus' view of His own death. He explains that it was the reason He came to earth. Jesus also says that by His death the "ruler of this world" would be cast out or overthrown. The significance of Jesus' death on the cross cannot be overstated. To Him, it was His calling and God's victory. This is not a future thing we wait for. This is what Jesus accomplished, victory over Satan. There has never been or will there be a greater spiritual war and Jesus won it with us in mind.

This makes His cross a symbol of the victory He won for those who believe in Him. We Christians need to get right the fact that though we may struggle the great battle has been won by none other that God's Own Son. There won't be a rematch. This victory is ours as His joint heirs if we remain in Him.

We love to celebrate this victory at Hillside. We are servants of the winner of everything, Jesus Christ. Come join us.

We are excited about the upcoming "Kids Fun Fest" the 30th. From 4:00 to 6:30pm all children are invited to the church for lots of great games, prizes, and plenty of candy. There will be more on this super event next week.