. And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, whosoever will come after me, Let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Mark 8:34
In the book of Mark, the audience was the Romans. In Rome death on the cross was a form of execution used on dangerous criminals. The prisoner carried his own cross, to the place of execution. This signified submission to Rome’s power.
Jesus used this to illustrate the greatest submission required of his followers. Jesus is talking about the great effort needed to follow him moment to moment, day-to-day. Following Jesus is hard, not an easy task.
think about this season of Easter. Jesus carried his own cross to Golgotha. Since He was so badly tortured, had no strength to carry the heavy wooden cross. Christ carried our sin. That is a heavy burden, I think. Since Jesus was selfless and took our sin, don’t you think we could deny ourselves and follow Jesus? To serve His purpose, whatever the cost.
The cross represents suffering, death, shame, ridicule, rejection, and self-denial. When we choose the cross, we are denying ourselves, our own desires, and way of life. With these choices we may also suffer in ridicule and persecution.
Following Jesus is not easy. People hate him. They hate us for choosing Him. Don’t let that stop you. Christ has done so much for you and me. Choose Him. Choose to deny yourself and Follow Him!!!
Are you ready to pick up your cross?
Do you comprehend what Christ did for you?
Are you ready to deny yourself?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for sending your son to die for our sins. Thank you for carrying the cross. God I pray that we will choose to pick up your cross and follow you. God I pray that with the Easter/passover season coming that you will speak to us.
In Jesus Name
Amen
