Carrying our Own Crosses

In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” This verse is a powerful reminder of what it means to truly follow Jesus. It’s not just about believing in Him; it’s about living a life that reflects His teachings and sacrifices.

Jesus speaks of three essential actions: denying ourselves, taking up our cross daily, and following Him. Denying ourselves means putting aside our personal desires, ambitions, and comforts when they conflict with God’s will. This is challenging because it requires us to let go of selfishness, pride, and sometimes even the things that seem important to us.

Taking up our cross daily means accepting the struggles, suffering, or hardships that come with living a life of faith. The cross, in Jesus’ time, was a symbol of suffering and sacrifice. Jesus is calling us to willingly accept the difficulties that come with being His disciples. But He also promises that we are not alone—He walks with us through our trials.

Following Jesus is a continuous journey. It’s a commitment to live according to His teachings, showing love, mercy, and forgiveness, and being a light to others. This path is not always easy, but it leads to true life and fulfillment, as Jesus reminds us in the verses that follow.

For laypeople – those who are not ordained ministers or religious leaders – this call is just as important. Jesus’ words in Luke 9:23 apply to all believers, regardless of their position in life. Whether we are teachers, workers, parents, students, or professionals, we are all called to follow Jesus in our daily lives.

This can look different for each of us. For some, it might mean showing kindness in the workplace. For others, it could mean being patient and loving with family members. It could even mean standing up for what is right, even when it is unpopular.

The beauty of this call is that it is meant to be lived out in our everyday experiences. By denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and following Jesus, we are transformed and become witnesses of His love and grace in the world around us. It’s a path that leads to a deeper relationship with God and a more meaningful, purpose-filled life.