| Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.” |
| —Luke 9:23-24 |
Life can certainly be glorious, wonderful, exciting, and so much more. Life can also be hard work, difficult, and a real drag. Some motivational speakers would have us believe that the kind of life we lead is really up to us. If we would only think positively, our lives would bristle with delight. That may be so. But, many people do not experience daily life in that way.
Recognizing that almost every life has some burdens to bear, here’s one relevant question: “What is the source of that burden?” Jesus recognized that life does have burdens. As a result, He gave His disciples these wise words, found in Luke 9:23-24:
Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.”
Notice that Jesus didn’t say: “Think positively.” Although, it’s quite possible that thinking positively does represent good advice. No, Jesus said: “… deny yourself and take up your cross daily and follow me.”
When we take up our “cross,” we’re picking up our heavy burdens, setting aside our selfish desires, and following in the footsteps of Jesus. In so doing, we will become vessels of His love, as well as of His mercy and grace. We will extend kindness and gentleness to everyone we meet. We will offer words of hope and help promote joy in people’s lives.
Somehow, through this process of obedience, I believe our burdens—our “crosses”—will seem a bit lighter. And, that would certainly be a good thing. So, this new day, let’s follow Jesus’ advice and see if it works the way He knows it will.
Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2018
