There’s Still WaterSample

Belongs To You

The cross is one of the most recognized symbols in the world today. When I see a cross hanging in someone’s house or tattooed on someone's arm, I assume this person believes in Jesus and his resurrection. It brings me a feeling of reassurance and hope that this person knows the truth like I do. However, when Jesus said to his hearers, “take up your cross and follow me”, it did not bring a feeling of hopefulness. The cross during Jesus’ time meant one thing and one thing only—death by crucifixion.

Many Christians all over the world are persecuted and face death for their faith, and we should take time to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ. [Go ahead. Pause for a moment and pray for their protection and safety. And that their efforts would bring glory to God.] But what about those of us who do not face that type of persecution? What does it mean to take up our cross? Many mistakenly believe that to carry our cross means to carry a burden in our life, like a strained relationship or a thankless job, and then, with self-pity, say, “This is the cross I bear.” However, convicted Roman citizens were required to carry their own cross to their execution. Because of this, we can understand that taking up our cross in today’s world means dying to oneself.

Following Jesus is easy when things are going well, but things change when we face trials and choices. To die to oneself means to set aside our own desires and interests and fully surrender to his. Like the lyrics say in “Belong to You”, “I will give it all to follow you, no matter the cost.” Are you willing to give up your own interests and desires to follow his? Take a moment and write down a few things that you find yourself putting all your time and investment into. Are you willing to crucify those things if asked to? May we never lose the true meaning of the cross.

Prayer:

Thank you, Lord, for bearing the weight of my sin on the cross. By your Spirit, help me recognize areas in my life that I am not fully surrendering to you. I want to follow you no matter the cost. Reveal what is distracting me from your purposes for my life. Thank you that your thoughts and your ways are higher than mine. Amen.