But with Christ, we have access in a one-to-one relationship, for, as in the Old Testament, it was more one of worship and awe, a vertical relationship. The New Testament, on the other hand, we look across at a Jesus who looks familiar, horizontal. The combination is what makes the Cross.

The quote by Bono explores the unique nature of the Christian relationship with God through Christ. In the Old Testament, the relationship was often seen as vertical—centered on worship, reverence, and awe of a transcendent God who was above humanity. In contrast, the New Testament introduces a horizontal dimension through Jesus Christ, who lived as a human among humans, allowing believers to relate to Him in a more personal and familiar way. This duality of transcendence and intimacy comes together in the symbol of the Cross.

The Cross itself is both vertical and horizontal, representing the fusion of divine reverence and human connection. The vertical beam symbolizes humanity’s relationship to God—worship, dependence, and awe—while the horizontal beam reflects the human side of Jesus, who walked among people, shared in their struggles, and connected with them personally. Bono suggests that it is this combination of transcendence and familiarity that defines Christianity and gives it its unique power.

The origin of this perspective comes from Bono, the lead singer of U2, who is also known for his deep reflections on faith, spirituality, and social justice. Though a rock musician, Bono has often spoken about his Christian beliefs in interviews, essays, and public appearances. His interpretation here blends theological symbolism with a poetic explanation of how believers can experience both the awe of God and the closeness of Christ simultaneously.

In essence, Bono’s reflection emphasizes that Christianity is not just about distant worship of a holy God, nor only about friendship with Jesus—it is about the intersection of the two. The Cross stands as the enduring symbol of this union: a bridge between heaven and earth, reverence and intimacy, awe and love. This is what makes the Christian faith dynamic, approachable, and transformative.