The Cross: Selected Writings & Images

by Max Lucado, Kevin Keller (Designer), Lisa Moore Taft (Photographer)

The cross.

No other symbol evokes such emotion. Its tragedy summons all sufferers. Its absurdity attracts all cynics. Its hope lures all searchers. History has idolized and despised it, gold-plated and burned it, worn and trashed it, History has done everything but ignore it.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Inspirational

60 pages, Hardcover

Published February 1, 1998

About the author

With more than 150 million products in print and several NYT bestsellers, Max Lucado is America's bestselling inspirational author. He serves the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy. His most recent book published in August 2024 and is titled What Happens Next.

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Reviews

[KmNO4 · Rating 5 out of 5]

You, who grieve the loss of an earthly father, may you be comforted knowing Jesus understands. He too, was separated from the Father (who'd been with Him all His life); Jesus went through the pain, the loneliness, the anguish...and it was because of us!
And it is because Jesus also went through this that we can be reunited with our own Dads again - Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. (:

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick thought-provoking read. I wish there were a few more references to the related Bible verses.

[Stephani Fannin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me in tears. Max Lucado has always been one of my favorite Christian authors. This one is a quick 60-page devotion about the cross. Perfect read for Good Friday!

[Lady Tamakloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw His passion with tears.
I love this!
It made me speechless

[Joyce Walton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this for Easter 20w9. It is all about the Crucifixion.

[Sheila Metcalf · Rating 5 out of 5]

ATY 2025 Week 43. A book whose title has ten or fewer letters: The Cross by Max Lucado. Oh my goodness, The Cross: Selected Writings & Images by Max Lucado is a five-star treasure that stirred my soul! This beautiful collection blends poetry, artwork, and reflections on the cross—from Eve’s apple to Jesus’ final breath. Lucado’s words trace salvation’s story with gentle power, reminding us of God’s love in every shadow and light. The illustrations breathe life into the narrative, making it feel like a prayerful journey through history. I closed it changed, grateful for grace that redeems our brokenness. Perfect for quiet evenings at Willow Blue Cottage—a must-read for anyone seeking hope in Christ’s sacrifice. #MaxLucado #TheCross #FaithReads

[Shakara Withers · Rating 2 out of 5]

Of note: I rated this book quite poorly, not because I disliked its composition or subject matter or for some other of many possible reasons- but because, after beginning it, I quickly realized that it is one of Lucado's numerous "compilation" books (e.g., the book is compiled from selected writings taken from Lucado's other primary books).

I have long considered Max Lucado one of my favorite authors and he remains, arguably, one of the greatest writers of all-time (across all genres) and is certainly one of the preeminent names in the world of inspirational/religious/spiritual writing. However, I prefer reading Lucado's primary books (which tend to be denser and often contain study guides at the end for deeper thought and discussion) and don't care for his "compilation" publishings, which tend to be short regurgitations of topics that he has already written about.

If you are looking for a quick, short pick-me-up then this is it. However, if you're looking for something with more substance, go for one of his primary books.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE CROSS is a book I wanted, but sadly, I missed out on it when it was available for review. This is a purchased copy, and I am not obligated to review since I bought it, but I am. My thoughts are my own.

I would love to visit Max Lucado's church. He must be a phenomenal preacher since I love his books. This is a gift book, themed for Easter since it's about the cross, but that said, THE CROSS (both the book and the actual cross) is relevant all year around.

Everything is about the cross. Our salvation. Our praise. The birth of Jesus that we celebrate every December 25 (even if that isn't the actual day of His birth).

Beautiful pictures. Verses from scripture. Short passages from Max Lucado's book "Six Hours on Friday" and more are included in this gift book.

Perfect gift for someone on your Christmas list. My preacher husband wanted my copy (so I told him I'd share!) and maybe your pastor would love a copy too.

[Brian Whited · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a devotional read and some of language he invokes is balm to the soul. As a critique, the chapters feel disjointed at times. Lucado acknowledges that the book is really a collection of different works that the publishers has joined together.

[Phil Deschler · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can you rate a book about. The cross is , God is real. Without the cross we are doomed. This book brings the need off of the cross & the why. We are SAVED.