It’s been said the crucifix is the Church’s most powerful visual aid. As the little girl in the cartoon underscores, looking at the crucifix can be tough at times. Baby Jesus in the manger is a whole lot easier on the eyes, but Christ on the cross is just as much a part of the reality of our salvation. The nativity doesn’t mean anything without the crucifix. The manger and the cross are inextricably linked – life and death, joy and suffering, working together for our salvation.