When the ‘Rude’ Becomes Holy

"Rood," of course, in the expression "Holy Rood," is spelled "r-o-o-d" (and I see no point for the present in annoying you with its linguistic history; the mention of Shakespeare has done enough to strain your patience already). But permit me today to spell it "r-u-d-e." Spelled that way, doesn't the designation "Holy Rude" capture the paradox of the cross?

Easter Season: Barabbas

This sermon looks at the story of Easter from the perspective of Barabbas, the only man who ever lived, who could assert--literally--that Christ Jesus died for him.