A father took his small son to visit a great cathedral. As they were walking up the long central aisle, the boy pointed out the cross on the altar and asked his father, “What is that big plus sign?”

The small boy captured the real meaning of the cross. Indeed, the cross adds positive dimensions to life. It adds the enriching elements of sympathy, unselfish love, patience, courage and on the list goes. Dr. A. Leonard Griffith wrote, “The Cross is God’s blood transfusion for a sick humanity; the body broken and blood shed on Calvary are the very life of God which He has given for the life of the world.”

Years ago I was given a little metal cross and the following poem called, “The Cross In My Pocket” written by Verna Thomas, Agora, Inc.:

I carry a cross in my pocket

A simple reminder to me

Of the fact that I am a Christian

No matter where I may be.

The little cross is not magic

Nor is it a good luck charm

It isn’t meant to protect me

From every physical harm.

It’s not for identification

For all the world to see

It’s simply an understanding Between my Savior and me.

When I put my hand in my pocket

To bring out a coin or a key

The cross is there to remind me

Of the price He paid for me.

It reminds me too, to be thankful

For my blessings day by day

And to strive to serve Him better

In all that I do and say.

It’s also a daily reminder

Of the peace and comfort I share

With all who know my Master

And give themselves to His care.

So, I carry a cross in my pocket

Reminding no one but me

That Jesus Christ is Lord of my life

If only I’ll let Him be.

The little cross in my pocket has been a continual reminder to me as to the depth of God’s love for each of us. It has been a special blessing for me to give this little cross and poem to many others over the years. Occasionally, I have accidentally dropped my cross when I reached into my pocket for coins or keys. Hopefully, someone will pick up the cross and be blessed by this “big plus sign.”

Dr. Curtis Coleman is emeritus dean and professor of religion and philosophy at Athens State University.