The configuration of the letters j, e, s, u, and a second s signifies Jesus, but that configuration is not Jesus. Those letters, constructed as the word Jesus, form a sign. Is this sign substantially different from other types of signs? For some people, a cross signifies Jesus. For others, a candle signifies Jesus. In evangelical churches, a man likely could kiss his Bible without reproach, but he might inspire frowns if he kissed a cross. The former action likely would seem noble; the latter action likely would seem Roman Catholic. If he kissed a candle, he might wind up with a waxed upper lip (in which case, from what I’ve been told, the ladies in Tennessee should kiss candles more frequently). If he were to kiss an icon, most American Protestants would think, “idolatry.” But it’s easy for me to imagine a Christian high school’s gym with the name “Jesus” painted on the wall, and the basketball players all placing their hands on that name before shouting their pre-game motto. Admirable? Maybe. But neither the wall, nor the paint, nor the word is Jesus.
These are still-forming thoughts, rendered in a blog post. Your thoughts?
liturgical 