A lot of people hang rosaries or crucifixes from their rearview mirrors. For a long time, I neglected this practice because I didn’t want to be distracted by something hanging by me while driving. After a couple of accidents though, I decided I could use some extra protection so I got a crucifix and hung it from my mirror.
Having the crucifix literally, always before my face, has provided some unexpected insights.
First, it’s hard to ignore Christ when he’s right there before you, hanging on the cross, reminding you of His sacrifice and of His love for you.
Second, the crucifix has become my barometer. If I drive too fast, I have to slow down and hold onto the cross to stop it from swaying too wildly. The same is true when I cut corners or when the road is bumpy.
As I was driving this morning and a sunbeam illuminated the cross, I realized my experience with this cross is an allegory for the Christian life. As Christians, we need to keep Him always before us – our eyes always fixed on Him. When we do, we remember his sacrifice and his love. He steers us straight.
When we cut corners, He reminds us to steer clear.
When the road is bumpy, when life throws curve balls, when we don’t know the road ahead, He reminds us to hang onto the Cross.
And, at all times, He is with us. Christ present. Christ before us.
“I keep the LORD always before me;
with him at my right hand, I shall never be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad, my soul rejoices;
my body also dwells secure,
For you will not abandon me soul to Sheol
nor let your devout one see the pit.
You will show me the path to life,
abounding joy in your presence,
the delights at your right hand forever. (Psalm 16)
Rebecca C. Ruiz 