Christ the Redeemer Statue sits atop Corcovado Mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park in Rio de Janeiro. The statue was created by French sculptor Paul Landowski and was built by the engineer Heitor da Silva Costa in collaboration with French engineer Albert Caquot. It is made of Soapstone and reinforced concrete. The pedestal stands 125 feet tall. The statue itself is 98 feet tall and the arms extend to a width of 92 feet.
The statue of Christ the Redeemer is a Brazilian icon. It is recognized the world over as a symbol of Christianity and is listed as one of the New Wonders of the World. The statue with open arms is considered to be a symbol of peace. Twice the statue has been struck by lightning with minor damage to the fingers. In 2010 a massive restoration of the monument was undertaken.
Residents of Rio de Janeiro and many visitors to the famous city find the statue extremely helpful in getting their bearings. You see, the statue faces east, the back of the statue faces west. The left arm points to the North and the right arm points to the South. From any visable point in Rio, and there are many, a disoriented traveler can find their way by looking at the statue.
Did not Jesus say, “I am the way!” With all of the voices that clamor for our attention today, with the religious pluralism that calls us to follow this path or that path, Jesus continues to plead with us “Come unto me”. The way of Christ is by far the most logical of all ways. No other way can claim a savior who died for our sins and rose again. No other religion can show us an empty tomb. No other religious leader has the power to forgive sins and guarantee us eternal life. If you are lost and confused by all the spiritual forces shouting for your attention and you need to find the way to salvation, peace, forgiveness and eternal life, look to Jesus. Like the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the Savior of the World can help you find your spiritual bearings. Look to Christ. He is the author and finisher of our faith.
In His Love,
Charles
