I want us to reflect on the gospel of today, Matthew 16:24-28, and specifically on the first sentence made therein, that is, “If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross and follow me….”
I themed this reflection as christianity without the cross because it is the order of the day. A christianity that sees suffering, poverty, sickness, death, and anything uncomfortable as what should not be for the christians. Thus, we believe that children of God should not experience any tribulations but a life of abundance and tranquillity.
Today, Jesus tells us that to follow him, we must be ready to carry our own crosses and follow him.
Jesus tells us to carry our crosses, but He never abandoned us with our crosses but helps us to bear the crosses and make them lighter for us to carry. He calls those who are tired and overburdened by the crosses they bear to give them rest. (Matthew 11:28-29)
The call to christianity is never devoid of crosses, but Jesus helps us bear the crosses in such a way that we no longer feel the weight on us.
Therefore, we need to grow into maturity in faith and must learn to pray that He may help us to bear our crosses and not be broken by the weight of these crosses.
Peace be with you.
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