SYMBOLS of CHRIST Nail Art Sculptures by Stephen Weaver  |
In the Bible, the manger was a feeding trough for animals and was very common in the land, as even the poorest family would need to feed their sheep cattle or goats. Mary and Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem near the time their first child was due. After a long search for lodging, the only shelter available was a stable. There among the animals, Jesus was born. Mary used what was available, wrapping Him in cloths and placing Him in a manger. The manger is the symbol of the birth of Jesus. He came from Heaven, into the most humble of surroundings. The birth of Jesus was heralded by angels who declared that all people should rejoice because of God’s love for them. |
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The cross is an upright stake, and in some instances in the Bible, it was a live tree. The cross was used by the Romans to crucify enemies of the government. At the urging of the Jewish religious authorities, Jesus was condemned to death by the Roman governor. Jesus was placed on a cross for several hours until He died. The cross is the symbol of Jesus’ death. As He died on the cross, He bore all the sins of humanity: past, present, and future. He became the required sacrifice to completely satisfy God’s judgment against all of humanity. The cross symbolizes our redemption (right-standing) with God. |
After Jesus died, He was buried in a borrowed tomb. Three days later, He was resurrected by the power of God. Jesus ascended to Heaven, God’s Throne. There He received His Kingdom. Jesus is now King forever over all the nations and peoples of the earth. The crown is the symbol of Jesus’ authority as King. It also symbolizes a believer’s position of authority, ruling with Jesus. No matter what trials and tribulations we face, the crown reminds us to persevere, to endure, and to overcome, because our victory is assured. |
