For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18

Have you ever heard of "The Painted Posse"?

Unless you are a fan of Louisiana State University football, the answer is "probably not." So, let me enlighten you. The Painted Posse are students whose love for the Tiger football team is equaled, no, it is surpassed, by their love of the Lord Jesus.

Amazingly, these students have found a way to blend their loyalty to both school and Savior. When LSU plays at home, the members of The Painted Posse paint themselves in the school colors. Then these living canvasses make sure that one more adornment is prominently displayed: a cross which is painted near their hearts.

It really makes quite a display, and pictures of The Painted Posse frequently are sent out by the school in various press releases.

That's the way it's been until the game which took place on October 13th. After their victory the school sent out a press release, and part of that sharing included a picture of The Painted Posse: a doctored picture of The Painted Posse, a picture bereft of their crosses.

The school explained: "We don't want to imply we are making any religious or political statements, so we air-brushed it (the crosses) out."

Should I read that again? "We don't want to imply we are making any religious or political statements, so we air-brushed it out."

Now I may be a little bit nuts, but it strikes me when you start taking away the symbol of somebody's faith, that is a religious statement.

About the only thing LSU got right in this whole thing is the fact that Jesus' cross is offensive. It is offensive because it says the Son of God came down to earth and offered Himself as the ransom that rescues lost and sinful souls.

Even more, those who follow the crucified and risen Christ say Jesus Christ alone is the way to forgiveness and heaven.

The publicity department at LSU doesn't like that statement, and atheists don't like it, and agnostics, and a lot of folks who say, "All religions are the same," but the truth is this: for those of us who are saved, the cross is the power of God.

The Painted Posse knows that and is proud of Jesus' cross. I pray you are, too.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, when Hadrian destroyed Jerusalem, he also leveled the hill where Jesus was crucified. It was his way of trying to erase the crucifixion of the Redeemer. Hadrian failed and so will others who walk in his footsteps. No matter what others may do, may I cling to the old rugged cross, on which my Savior died to win my salvation. In His Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Psalms 137    Ezekiel 1-2    1 Timothy 2

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