Jesus’ crucifixion was not just 'another day in the life of a Roman executioner'.  It would have far-reaching consequences.  In the same way in which Simon of Cyrene found himself a surprised participant in the execution procession, the cross of Christ would make its mark on billions throughout history.  As Jesus climbed the hill, women wailed their immediate grief as at a funeral; but He stopped briefly to tell them that the cross was not just for that day.
 
Jesus predicted the total destruction of Jerusalem, which happened within 40 years.  The savage attack on the city by the forces of General Titus in AD70 would not spare even the children - let alone the temple which would be destroyed as its stones were totally dismantled and used for military and commercial buildings.  It would be the last great prophetic drama which would anticipate and announce the final Judgement Day when King Jesus will return in all His glory.  All those who have welcomed His sacrifice on the cross have received His salvation and will enter His kingdom: all the others will be lost for eternity (2 Corinthians 5:10).
 
Jesus had already taught in parables about what would happen when God's special people rejected their Messiah - He would come and destroy His tenants and give the vineyard to others (Luke 20:14-18).  The exclusivity of Israel being God's people would end.  As Jesus was the once-for-ever sacrifice for sins (Hebrews 10:12), there was no further need for the temple with its priests and sacrificial system.  They would all be redundant … and General Titus demolished them. And to this day there is still no temple, high priest or sacrifice in Jerusalem.  Instead, the Kingdom of Heaven has been opened to all races and every nation who worship the Christ who died for them; but all others will be excluded.
 
So Calvary, with its blooded cross, was not just for one day.  To reject the meaning of Jesus' death there, is to invite an eternity of remorseful lostness.  But to welcome His sacrifice for your sins is to enter heaven's kingdom now.  Likewise, we do not just live for today but for Him who will come to receive us when He returns.  So, the story of the cross is not just history: how you respond to it will determine your future, and the reaction of your friends and colleagues to the gospel will determine their future too (www.crosscheck.org.uk)!