“Those who want to become my followers, let them take up their cross and follow me.”
Matthew 16.24
Jesus recommends denying oneself and taking up our crosses in Sunday’s gospel. This saying packs Jesus’ whole life into a single sentence. Jesus does not follow God’s will only in carrying the cross. He comes among us to heal and reveal God’s nearness and love. He lives his mission throughout his life, even unto death.
How do we imitate Jesus’ self-giving in our lives? Slowly, over a lifetime, I’d say. I resist a call to martyrdom. Most of us today see no need to invent suffering. We give our energies daily to work and family commitments. Young parents exhaust themselves with round the clock care for a new child. Older spouses care for one another through doctors’ appointments, blood draws, and treatments in sickness. Daily we give ourselves in loving one another.
In what ways has giving of your life helped you find you life?
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