To the Jews, the cross was a stumbling block. Why? Because they wanted their religion, their traditions and routines. To the Greeks, it was foolishness, not the truth. The cross of Christ  is the free pardon of sin, the power of salvation, the blood atonement for those who believe.  

Romans 3:23  For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.

Romans 5:12  Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned.

Romans 6:23  For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

They didn't take Jesus' life, He gave it. Jesus suffered beatings, scourging, humiliation, and crucifiction without saying a word.

Next week is Easter Sunday. To get to the empty tomb, you have to go through the cross. Do you see Him hanging there?  Do you see the blood flowing from His hands, side, and feet? Do you see Him paying your sin debt. All He asks is that you trust Him as your personal Lord and Saviour.