Take Up Your Cross

34 He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it. 36 For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life?

(Mark 8:34-36)

In this passage Jesus is not talking about dealing with annoying neighbors, or a difficult boss. Nor is Jesus necessarily calling people to martyrdom. Instead, Jesus is saying that when we must choose between our own comfort and security, and living out Jesus' priorities, choose Jesus. He is calling us to use our time, talent, and resources so that others will experience God's love. Easy peasy? Not.

We are constantly at war within ourselves. We gravitate toward satisfying our desires while ignoring the hurting, hungry and hopeless in our midst. When we are tempted to toss the cross to the side until it's more convenient or less disruptive, we must choose the path of Jesus if we are to call ourselves followers of Christ.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the LORD are sure, making wise the simple; 8 the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eyes; 9 the fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. 14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

(Psalm 19:7-9,14)