Lent Cross Stitch Along Finale: The Complete Windows to Wonder Pattern
- Kristina Crog
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
Welcome to the culmination of our Windows to Wonder cross stitch along! Over the past weeks, we’ve followed Nicodemus’ journey—from his secret, nighttime visits to Jesus’ teaching, through his growing conviction, and now, to this sacred moment in John’s Gospel at the burial of Jesus. Today, we’re thrilled to unveil the final cross‑stitch pattern. Download the fifth pattern reveal by clicking on the file under this paragraph.
Integrating Contemplation with this Cross Stitch Along
As you settle in with your needle and floss, consider integrating these practices to help turn your craft time into devotional time.
Engage with Scripture: Read or listen to John 19:38-42 then contemplate these questions:
Hidden No More: What fears or hesitations keep you “coming by night” in your own faith journey? How might stepping into the light, as Nicodemus did, open you to deeper relationship with Christ?
Courage to Anoint: Joseph of Arimathea risked social and political scorn to care for Jesus’ body. In what ways is God calling you to act courageously on behalf of others, even when it feels risky?
Ritual and Relationship: Nicodemus risked ritual impurity for the sake of love and service when he agreed to participate in Jesus's burial. How can you re‑evaluate traditions or “rules” in your life to ensure they serve relationship and compassion first?
Breath Prayers with Every Stitch: Choose a simple two‑part phrase (e.g., “Lord, have mercy” / “Christ, be my light”). On each long stitch, silently pray the first half; on each return stitch, pray the second. Let the rhythm of needle and thread draw you into a meditative dance of breath and blessing.
Spice Jar Meditation: Gather small containers of the spices or essential oils mentioned in John 19 (myrrh, aloes). As you stitch the floral or geometric borders of your pattern, open each jar briefly. Inhale deeply, asking God to anoint your heart with compassion, courage, and conviction—mirroring Nicodemus’ own act of devotion.
Scripture Soundtrack: Create a playlist of readings from John’s Gospel, focusing on themes of belief, witness, and community. Play these softly in the background as you stitch, allowing the Gospel’s cadence to infuse each cross with deeper meaning. Pause at verse 42 to sit in silence, imagining the tomb’s hush and the weight of what it means to “believe into Christ.”
Listen & Reflect: Join Pastors Tina, Angel, and Laura on our companion podcast as they explore John 19:38-42 and the brave steps taken by Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea as they care for Jesus's body. The episode drops April 7, 2025.
