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Verse:Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. —Romans 8:34, NASB
Each year tourists from around the world visit Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which is world-renowned for its beautiful landscape, numerous attractions, and intense social life. At the top of Corcovado Mountain is the statue of Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor), its open arms engulfing the city. The foundation stone of this colossal monument was laid on April 4, 1922. Nine years later, the iconic statue was completed.
It was officially inaugurated on October 12, 1931, as a symbol of Christ, who loves and embraces all who come to Him. In 2007, the statute was proclaimed one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Over the years, the Christ the Redeemer statue has undergone periodic cleanings, repairs, and renovations.
Even with a lightning rod on top, the statue is not totally immune to lightning and thunderstorms. According to the Brazilian National Institute for Space Research, an average of six lightning strikes hit the statue each year.
In 2008, one of them damaged part of the statue’s head and fingers, which had to be repaired. This and other similar statues of Christ around the world are merely lifeless depictions of Him, periodically requiring care. In contrast, the real Christ whom we serve is “unblemished and spotless” (1 Peter 1:19, NASB) and “without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). He also remained sinless in His incarnation. Edward Heppenstall states: “The effect of Adam and Eve’s sin, while it affected His physical constitution, did not reach Him morally and spiritually as it reaches us.”3 Otherwise, He could not be our Savior but would need a savior Himself. While those statues need to be cared for, our living Christ is always interceding and caring for us. “He knows by experience what are the weaknesses of humanity, what are our wants, and where lies the strength of our temptations; for He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. He is watching over you, trembling child of God. Are you tempted? He will deliver. Are you weak? He will strengthen.
Are you ignorant? He will enlighten.
Are you wounded? He will heal.” What a wonderful Savior we have!