INRI, Olivet, Hosanna, Calvary
This series is based on a layered cross design by Shane Dennehey. From left to right:
“INRI” (Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudorum, Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews) – The name refers is to the sign posted on Jesus’ cross by Pontius Pilate who sentenced Him. The purpleheart represents Christ’s royalty. The ebony/maple center represents the exchange of our Sin for His Righteousness. The padauk center represents the nails and spear by which the cleansing Blood was poured out for the Sin of the world.
“Olivet” – The rich earth tones of this cross evoke the Mt. of Olives and the garden place where our Lord retreated for prayer before going to the Cross. The center is composed of olivewood and padauk, again evoking the Blood of Christ by which comes our forgiveness and healing. “By His wounds we are healed.”
“Hosanna” – The purpleheart combined with olivewood evoke the journey of Holy Week, from the triumphal entry of our Lord to shouts of Hosanna! to the somber prayer in the garden and the Cross. I find this cross to be joyful in spite of the suffering the Cross entails. For the joy set before Jesus, He endured the Cross and scorned its shame. Hosanna to the Son of David!
“Calvary” – This composition came as something of an afterthought. The sharp contrast of ebony and maple represent the “happy exchange” of our Sin for Christ’s Righteousness (2 Cor. 5:21). At the very center is the padauk “nail,” evoking the wounds of Christ which bring us eternal peace.
