The cross is at the core of the universe.  The Creator Himself participates in the cross and has woven its pattern into the order of things.  Matter dies and becomes energy.  Stars die and are reborn.  Seeds die and sprout to new life.  Winter gives way to Spring.  Burned out forests spring to new life; where ashes were new vegetation arises.  Flowers die to bloom again.  Tombs give up their dead by resurrection.  Life fights against death and wins; death does not have the final word.  Choose your death on the cross and in so doing you will choose life.  Let what has been woven into the order of things be woven into you.

“This is a trustworthy saying: If we die with Him, we will also live with Him”. 2 Timothy 2:11