What does it mean to shoulder our crosses daily to follow Jesus? Jokingly we refer to the inconveniences and frustrations in our lives as crosses to bear, but Christ spoke of a real cross in Luke 9:23 (see above) after describing what He Himself would suffer, sacrifice and save because "God so loved the world." Carrying our cross, according to Max Lucado, has everything to do with loving others: "To take up the cross, then, is to take up Christ's burden for the people of the world." (Every Day Deserves A Chance, Max Lucado)
Let's look at the crosses God has given us to carry. They should be heavy to show we can't do enough to show people God's Love, but after that, each of cross is unique. What does yours look like?
Does it look like hospitality and an open door so your neighbors who don't have a clue God loves them and wants a personal relationship with them may see and know?
Does your cross resemble a spiritual greenhouse where you plant and water seeds with your gift of teaching, shepherding and nurturing?
Is your cross a half-way house where you exercise mercy and encourage prodigals to keep moving back home and into the Father's Arms? How about a business office where your gift of administration demonstrates Truth, integrity, leadership, fairness, and service so co-workers see what you believe?
A hospital for hurting ministers?
A kitchen filled with comfort food for weary warriors or isolated servants?
A public school filled with so many needs you wouldn't step foot inside without prayer and the Power of the Holy Spirit?
A disaster relief team?
A choir loft, orchestra pit, or praise band where you join others to glorify God and encourage His people?
A food pantry or clothes closet for the poor and needy?
An altar where you send prayers heavenward for every need people bring to you because you've been blessed with the gift of faith?
Is there any way to escape the truth that God has gifted each of us to carry a cross and sacrifice so others may know Him? . . . because He loved the world, so should we.
"And I am sure that God, Who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again." Philippians 1:6
"So, my brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." 1 Corinthians 15:58
"But my life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus -- the work of telling others the Good News about God's wonderful kindness and love." Acts 20:24
Lord forgive us for getting caught up in our frustrations when You've called us to carry out specific callings to bring others to Your throne. Help us carry our crosses with Your Love, Your Power, Your Peace, and Your Purpose. What beautiful, significant lives You've planned for us if we'll simply do what You call us to do with the gift and Power You supply.
In the Name of Jesus Who carried the cross and suffered for each of us to know You
Inspired by Live Loved, by Max Lucado
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