The weight of the cross

 

The first time I saw this meme, I had some trouble trying to understand what the joke was about. However, after thinking about it, I realized that whoever made the meme was likely not only a fan of the gym, but also referring to the cross that Jesus carried on His way to calvary. At this point, I felt offended that someone would try to make light of the situation (no pun intended).

Knowing that this was the pinnacle of Christ's ministry and the most difficult time of His life, He likely would not have appreciated this joke either. The cross represents everything that Christ came into the earth to accomplish: the freedom for humanity, the triump over death and the enemy, and fulfilment of old testament prophecy. The pain and suffering that Christ endured on that cross, bearing all the sins of mankind upon Himself should elicit nothing less than humility and thanksgiving from anyone. The fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us should inspire us to emulate His love for people.

In order to bridge the gap with a non-Christian, I would likely bring up the intended message of the cross, and let them know what the purpose of Christ's suffering was. All joking aside, this meme made a mockery of what Christ sacrificed for mankind, and offends me as a Christian.