Upreach and Outreach

Let us hold firmly to the hope we claim to have. The One who promised is faithful. Let us consider how we can stir up one another to love. Let us help one another to do good works. Let us not give up meeting together. Some are in the habit of doing this. Instead, let us cheer each other up with words of hope. Let us do it all the more as you see the day coming when Christ will return. (Hebrews 10:23-25)

The vertical beam of the cross points directly upward as a reminder of the work done directly by God on our behalf: . . . sin debt paid . . . relationship restored . . . man's hope alive! However, there is another beam reaching east to west. This beak reminds us of the human touch of Jesus . . . how far and wide he reached out to save every human being if we simply accept His plan on His terms. These very vertical beams require those of us who claim His name to reach out to touch those around us as well. Jesus' pain upon the cross should be a reminder that we need to show others how much we appreciate the sacrifice made for us. It is the only way we can express the love of Christ. The upward reach of the cross to God's heart leads to the outward reach from our hearts to others. We stir up others . . . partner with one another in ministry . . .meet to encourage one another . . .cheer one another up! It's how we reach one another and the dying world . . . with the hands, feet and heart of Christ!

Reach up . . . and Out