Language Lab: What Is “calvary”?

Language Lab: What Is “Calvary”?

Bible Blast: Read Luke 23:26-46

When they came to a place called The Skull [Calvary], they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left. Luke 23:33

The word Calvary makes an appearance in many of the songs we sing in church, but did you ever wonder just what Calvary is? Basically Calvary refers to the name of the mountain or hill on which Jesus was hung on the cross to die. Another name for the hill is Golgotha; some versions of the Bible call it Calvary, and some call it Golgotha. Both words mean the same thing: “skull.” The hill that held the cross was referred to as the “Place of the Skull.” This could be for a couple of different reasons. Some believe it was called that because it was a place of execution, and there were many skulls and bones that covered it. Some believe the hill was named for its rocks that were bleached by the sun, causing them to resemble skulls. Others say there’s a possibility that from a distance something about the shape of the hill actually looked something like a giant human skull. Freaky, huh?

One thing is definitely true about Calvary: It was not pretty. It wasn’t a rich, grassy park, where families would take picnic baskets and spend the afternoon. When Jesus was making his way up to Calvary, he wasn’t caught up in the beauty of the wildflowers growing around the base of the cross. When Jesus stumbled up the hill, the only beautiful thing that surrounded him was his great love for every human—his great love for you.

And because of Calvary, you and I have the opportunity to receive God’s free gift of eternal life with him.

Because of Calvary, I know my sins are forgiven.

Because of Calvary, I’m pure and clean.

Because of Calvary, I have access to his power to live a victorious life.

Because of Calvary, hope cannot be taken away from me or from you.

Girl Gab: Mom, have your daughter close her eyes while you read Luke 23:26-46 out loud. Daughter, while you listen to the words describing the Crucifixion, ask God to give you a new view of the Cross and Calvary. Thank him for going to the “Place of the Skull” for you.