"On millions of inhabited worlds, tens of trillions of evolving creatures who may have been tempted to give up the moral struggle and abandon the good fight of faith, have taken one more look at Jesus on the cross and then have forged on ahead, inspired by the sight of God’s laying down his incarnate life in devotion to the unselfish service of man." 188:5.5 (2018.4)
This reflects on the profound and enduring influence of Jesus’ crucifixion, not only on Earth but also as a symbol across the universe. It suggests that throughout “millions of inhabited worlds,” countless beings have faced moral challenges and moments of despair. In these moments, the image of Jesus on the cross serves as a powerful reminder of self-sacrifice and steadfastness in the face of adversity. The idea is that the story of Jesus’ ultimate act of love and sacrifice inspires individuals everywhere to persevere in their own “good fight of faith,” even when tempted to give up.
Central is the concept of the cross as a universal symbol of hope and moral courage. Jesus’ willingness to lay down his life is portrayed as the highest example of devotion to others, transcending personal suffering for the sake of unselfish service. This act becomes a beacon for all who struggle with ethical dilemmas or the burdens of life, encouraging them to continue striving for goodness. The cross, therefore, is not just a historical event but a living inspiration that continues to motivate moral action and selfless service across time and space.
Ultimately, it emphasizes the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice, suggesting that it has a ripple effect far beyond its original context. It proposes that the example set by Jesus on the cross has inspired “tens of trillions of evolving creatures” to persist in their moral journey. By looking to this act of divine love and commitment, individuals are reminded of the value of perseverance and the importance of serving others. In this way, the sight of Jesus on the cross becomes a catalyst for ongoing moral progress and spiritual growth throughout the universe.
.JPG)
