A Thing of Beauty (Controversy)

There are two opposing views on the beauty of the Cross...one considers that it is NOT beauty, but ugly, horrifying death of torture and pain. The other view considers the crucifixion in another light and that's the thought of the cross after Jesus overcame death and was risen! It looks at the saving grace He provides for us. The first article (View 1) was read before our Lord's Supper Sunday. See what your view is:

View 1: Taken from Communion Meditations (blog by George)  "A Thing of Beauty"

View 2: Taken from Pastoral Meanderings (blog by Pastor Peters) "The Cross is Not Pretty"