Understanding the Call to Purpose and Commitment
Have you ever paused to think about the phrase “take up your cross and follow me”? It’s one of those sayings from Jesus that can feel heavy, even daunting, at first glance. Yet, when you peel back the layers, you find a message full of encouragement. There is also a profound sense of purpose.
What Does It Really Mean?
This phrase appears in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, spoken by Jesus to his followers. He tells them to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him. At first, this might seem like a tall order. But when you break it down, the essence of his words becomes clearer—and deeply relatable.
The Cross as a Symbol
In modern times, we often see the cross as a symbol of faith and hope. But back in Jesus’ day, the cross was an instrument of execution—grim and terrifying. So when Jesus talked about carrying a cross, he wasn’t sugarcoating the idea of challenge and sacrifice. He was calling his followers to be prepared, to embrace the hard stuff in life for the greater good.
It’s not about seeking hardship or suffering, though. Rather, it’s about being willing to face whatever comes your way with strength, courage, and faith. It’s a reminder that life’s difficulties can be transformed into meaningful growth when approached with purpose.
More Than Just Hardship
“Taking up your cross” doesn’t mean you have to live in constant struggle or pain. Instead, it speaks to a deeper commitment—a willingness to let go of selfish desires and live according to Jesus’ teachings. It’s about striving to be loving, kind, forgiving, and humble in a world that often pushes us toward being self-centered. It’s not just about enduring difficulties but choosing to live intentionally and in alignment with something bigger than ourselves.
A Daily Decision
Here’s the thing: this isn’t a one-and-done kind of deal. “Taking up your cross” is a daily choice. It’s the decision to wake up each day and live with integrity. It means putting others before yourself. You must stay true to your values, even when it feels inconvenient or challenging.
It’s the small, everyday acts—helping a neighbor, forgiving someone who hurt you, showing kindness to a stranger—that reflect this commitment. Over time, these choices shape you into the person you’re called to be.
Why It’s Worth It
Let’s be honest: following Jesus isn’t always easy. There will be moments when you’d rather take the simpler path, avoid discomfort, or cling to your own desires. But the beauty of this journey is that it leads to incredible rewards. Jesus promises a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. Beyond that, it holds the hope of eternal life—a relationship with God that lasts forever.
When you embrace this way of life, you’ll find that the sacrifices you make aren’t losses at all. They’re steps toward something richer and more meaningful. You’ll discover the joy that comes from living for others, standing firm in your beliefs, and growing spiritually.
Why It Matters
Ultimately, “take up your cross and follow me” is about courage and commitment. It also involves the willingness to live for something greater than yourself. It’s a reminder that meaningful things often require effort and sacrifice. But, they bring tremendous rewards in this life and the next.
So, the next time you hear this phrase, let it inspire you. Think of it not as a burden. View it as an invitation to live a life of love, purpose, and spiritual growth. Each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to the person you’re meant to be.
May this reflection encourage you to embrace your own journey with faith and strength. Together, we can live our lives with meaning and make a positive impact on the world around us.
Blessings,
Your Fellow Traveler on the Journey
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 