We know from the words of Jesus that the path to everlasting life lies not just in HIS blood, but in HIS footsteps. We see the crucifix not only as a symbol that reminds us of the sacrifice that HE made so that we may enter God's kingdom, but we also see it as a symbolic reminder of the undying resolve we must have to sacrifice our Earthly lives to God's will so that when Judgment Day comes, we may walk in the Kingdom of Heaven.
1 Peter 2:21
"For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps."
Matthew 16:24
Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."
John 8:12
Again, Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”
1 Corinthians 11:1-2
"Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you."