Take Up Your Cross

Following Jesus was pretty easy when there were crowds, miracles and powerful sermons. It was even fun when Jesus would turn His critiques on the corrupt and hypocritical religious leaders. But the day Jesus utttered the words "Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me" the scene changed. The concept that following Jesus might cost us something is one thing that can make us Unfollow. But if Jesus is going to become Lord, it requires a willingness in little and big ways for us to die to ourselves. If we believe in a cross-free faith, we aren't listening to Jesus.