There are some beautiful passages in today’s reading and some that leave me a little perplexed. Did you feel that way, too?
It’s the first time, in Luke’s account, that Jesus warns his disciples about his future death and resurrection. Quite a turning point, but I’m certain his followers didn’t understand. It would be hard for them (and us for that matter) to truly grasp what Jesus was saying. I’m sure they didn’t want to believe it even if they understood.
The verses we’ll focus on are “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.”
Here, Jesus is setting out as his expectations for our behavior. It’s pretty clear. “Our” way is out. That might be a hard pill to swallow for many. This world puts so much emphasis on having “things,” prestige, and success. I’m as guilty as the next for wanting some added comforts and success. But we need to look deeper.
I don’t think that Jesus is saying we can’t have nice things or we should be failures. But, he is warning us that to follow him we must not seek those things first. Our hearts must be focused on loving and trusting God. How we respond then, is to serve others. First. If our focus is to get more stuff so we look good or feel good, we are not true followers of Jesus.
To take up our cross, to me, means we have to acknowledge our weaknesses. We have to be true to ourselves. It doesn’t mean we have to stay that way, angry, boastful, greedy, overwhelmed. When we become aware of what our “cross” or “burden” is, we need to call it out, and daily work on resolving it. Chances are good we can’t resolve it alone. We need to give it to Jesus, humble ourselves and ask for help.
Fixing our eyes on Jesus will save our life. Whether or not we struggle or have plenty, we need to fix our eyes on Jesus. If we left the world today, would we be joining Jesus in eternity? He promises us a place if we truly submit to him. He is waiting for us.
Sounds simple, but it’s not easy is it?
Let’s pray. Father God, you have convicted me once again to be all in for you. I need to give up my dreams and take on your intentions for me. I do feel empowered to serve and help others. I thank you that you have put that desire burning inside me. Forgive me for still holding on to “things” that are not benefiting me or the Kingdom. Help me in understanding your word on a deeper level so I can share my insights with others. I am certainly not ashamed of you. I am amazed by you and thankful for how you are working for those faithful to you. Continue to use me to be someone’s answered prayer. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
