Re:Verse reading–Luke 23:1-27, 32-49 (day two)
When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left. vs. 33
Tomorrow is the first day of Lent. This word actually means “Spring” but is most closely associated with the days leading up to Easter. As with other “seasons” of the church, Lent is designed to help think about and to aid in telling the story of Jesus. When we consider Jesus’ life and ministry we are amazed at his wisdom, insight, integrity, and divinity. When you put that into the context of his suffering and the atonement we received as a result you get an even greater picture of the sovereignty of Jesus. As we prepare for the glorious celebration of Easter, I would like to encourage you to consider the cross. Consider this gentle lamb who willingly placed himself there for each of us. It is truly overwhelming, and it should be. Thanks be to God, however, the story doesn’t end there. Will you join me as we lead up to the resurrection and consider how we can love Jesus more?
Death on a cross is not pleasant, is painful and humiliating. The implication for taking up one’s cross, in my view, is about the concept of denying ourselves to follow God.
For some, nothing in this life is worth keeping if it means losing eternal life, including a job, a family, and friends. The call to take up one’s cross is a tough call, but for these folks, the eternal reward is well worth the temporary pain and struggles or temporary gains.
I believe for some, there will be a point in their lives where they will face with a choice, Jesus or the comforts of their lives. Whichever choice one chooses will speak volumes about his or her love for the final destination!
Taking up one’s cross to follow Jesus is an individual decision as well as a God’s calling. Are you at the point to give up yourself, your job, your family and friends to fulfill God’s will for eternal reward? I am sure the answer will be, “we will know when we come to that point!”
When God is ready and calls upon someone to take his or her cross to follow God through Jesus Christ, it will be definitely a Yes answer! I am convinced!