Remember show and tell? It was stressful. How could you possibly choose? You’d want to bring your dog, your grandfather’s arrowheads, and your autographed picture of a pro figure skater. You’d line up your stuff on your bed wishing you could bring it all. After what felt like hours but really only minutes of agonizing over the choices, you would finally arrive at a decision.
In front of your whole class you’d smile ear-to-ear, gloating and sharing why your item was so magnificent, and why everyone wishes they had one like yours. Naturally, you’d here oohs and aahhs. Sure, there were also confused looks, giggles and snickers—but those were the mean kids who didn’t understand why you chose that item. They’d call you names and try to make you feel foolish for bringing your prized possession. How could they hate your show and tell? Their taunts made you feel foolish for sharing.
When we accept the powerful message of the cross, it should become our show and tell for the rest of our lives.
We don’t see the cross as another symbol of execution for the criminals of society or a shaming post for the outcast. To historians and unbelievers, it’s another form of capitol punishment. To us it’s glorious freedom. The message of the cross is cosmically heroic. On the cross we see Jesus battling to overcome brokenness and sin for the world. We recall our lives before the impact of the cross and see radical, transformational change. The message of the cross is marvelous to us. It changed everything for us. It is anything but foolish. It becomes magnificent.
Everyday becomes show and tell. The greatest living story ever told and written by God himself propels us to share. Capturing a childlike excitement that doesn’t have to disappear in us no matter what reaction the world may bring. We can boldly share with the rest of the world because our lives become living proof that Jesus’ work on the cross is real. The cross changes from foolish to brilliant. Death to resurrection. Despair to hope and life.
We can go into the world with our hearts beating with excitement and nervousness readying ourselves for show and tell.
Original article: www.frontiersusa.org/blog/article/show-and-tell-reflections-on-1-corinthians-118
