TAKING UP THE CROSS
March 19, 2025
TEXT: Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (Matthew 16:24)
Taking up the cross is a challenge that we, as Christians and followers of Jesus Christ, face on a daily basis. The cross referred to here is not a physical cross but a metaphorical one that depicts commitment and selflessness to the service of God. The text for today highlights three essential principles of a good disciple, namely:
✅ Self-denial: The ability to sometimes let go of comfort or personal interests for the sake of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
✅ Daily cross-bearing: The cross is not something to be borne periodically but daily and regularly.
✅ Follow the Master: Wherever He bids us, we must be ready to go.
The life of Christianity is not one of ease and pleasure but one of regular rigors, which will culminate in eternal glory if well managed and handled. Anyone who tells you that Christianity is a call to pleasure has obviously erred, because although pleasure is embedded in Christ, a life of discipleship entails much more than that.
WHY MUST WE TAKE UP OUR CROSS?
- The rigors and discipline associated with daily bearing of the cross will ultimately result in spiritual growth and development for us. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
- By constantly bearing our cross, we are indirectly identifying with Christ, especially His suffering, death, and resurrection on the cross of Calvary. Having sacrificed so hard for us to obtain the salvation that we gladly brandish about today, it is essential for us to also suffer for His sake. That popular hymn by W.H. Havergal says: “I GAVE MY LIFE FOR YOU; WHAT HAVE YOU GIVEN FOR ME?”
- Our lives become more fruitful since constantly bearing our cross helps us enjoy closer intimacy with God, thereby availing Him of the opportunity to work on defective areas of our lives. One cannot labor in sincerity for Christ and remain in the valley. (John 15:5)
SEARCHLIGHT: The will of the Master is also our will. We have no will of our own as disciples of Christ.
PRAYERS: O Lord, help me to be faithful and committed to You, in the name of Jesus Christ.
BIBLE READING: 2 Samuel 16-18, 1 Corinthians 16
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
