Woven: The Ship

Throughout the years, Christianity has used the ship to symbolize the church. Like a ship, churches carry Christians to safe harbor. Tossed in a sea of disbelief, persecution, and worldliness, the church awaits a safe harbor for its cargo of human souls. From the Latin word navis comes the word nave, which is the main part of the church’s interior or sanctuary for worship. A ship was also used so Christians could identify one another. With the ship’s mast forming a cross, they could easily hide the sign of the cross within the symbol. While this is the traditional meaning of the ship, I have come to appreciate how the ship also reminds us to go into the world to make disciples of Jesus.

           The Good News of Jesus spread from Jerusalem to a worldwide faith. Ships were an important means of transportation for the early church and was important in evangelistic efforts. We even have the example of Paul when he was shipwrecked on the way to Rome. Ships were vital to sharing Christ across the Roman Empire.

           When Jesus commanded his followers to be his witnesses from Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth, the disciples took this very seriously. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, they went and told many on a ship. Thus, a ship reminds us of our own calling to continue to share Jesus. How have you shared Jesus today? (Acts 1:6-11)

           Journeying with you this Lent,

           Rev. Sherri