Take up your Cross

Do you know what your crosses are? They come to us through various ways and manifest themselves in our lives in so many shapes and forms. We’ve heard it said that we should learn how to ’embrace our crosses’ – this is one of those things that is easier said than done, and nearly impossible to do if we haven’t recognized that that “something” in our life is in itself a cross. Similar to curing a disease, one can’t begin to find a cure if they don’t first recognize the source, the symptoms and the makings of the problem at hand.

Our Lord knew very well what He would have to endure and still chose to embrace His cross. He literally and figuratively took up His cross for our sakes, and continues to perform that same sacrifice daily out of pure love for us.

No two crosses are the same, and only God knows why we’ve been given the ones that we have. Crosses come in different weights, are made of different wood, bear unique significances and markings, but are all hand picked for each of us with purpose.

Lord, help us to recognize then accept the crosses You willingly share with us, and teach us how to deny ourselves, take up our crosses and follow You.