There are differences between idols, and symbols. The cross is an outward expression of an inward commitment to our Lord. You see symbols used heavily in Catholic practice. Where it becomes an issue is when you start to worship the item itself as if it's holy. Like the people who worship the "crying" Mary statue, or the people who make it a point to buy a specific flask of holy water because someone blessed it.
I think it’s this.
If somebody destroyed your cross, would you be fine with it, upset because something you worked on was destroyed, or upset because something you revered was destroyed.
If it’s the first two, you’re fine. When you start to revere the religious items beyond what they represent from an artistic perspective, that’s when they become idols.
Similarly, you could revere an ancient Christian relic for its rarity, and be upset that something so rare was destroyed. As long as you don’t worship the item itself, it remains only an appreciation for artistry or rarity.
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