Meaning of "Jesus Was a Cross Maker" by Judee Sill

The lyrics of "Jesus Was a Cross Maker" by Judee Sill can be interpreted in different ways but are ultimately exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and the dichotomy between love and danger. The narrator's encounter with a stranger who lured them with a sweet song reveals their vulnerability and inclination to trust, despite sensing that something is amiss.

The stranger is described as a bandit and a heartbreaker, suggesting that their intentions were not genuine or honorable. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of falling for superficial charm without fully understanding a person's true nature. The reference to Jesus as a cross maker adds an additional layer of meaning. In Christian symbolism, Jesus is associated with sacrifice and redemption, as he was crucified on a cross for the sins of humanity. By juxtaposing Jesus as a cross maker with the bandit stranger, the song explores contrasting notions of love and betrayal.

The plea to the sweet silver angels over the sea reveals the narrator's desperate need for guidance and protection. The angels symbolize a source of hope and divine intervention, someone who can offer enlightenment and lead them away from the dangers that surround them. The repeated refrain "Please come down flyin' low for me" expresses a deep longing for assistance, suggesting that the narrator feels lost and alone in a treacherous world.

Overall, "Jesus Was a Cross Maker" delves into the complexities of trust and the consequences of misplaced faith. It highlights the struggles and temptations individuals face when navigating relationships and urges listeners to be cautious and discerning. The references to both the stranger and Jesus offer contrasting perspectives on love, with one representing deceit and betrayal, and the other embodying sacrifice and redemption.