Crossofchrist - Tumblr Posts
When we see symbols we usually have a good idea what they mean.
For example the barbershop pole means haircuts, the power button starts electronics, and the radiation symbol indicates danger ahead. Although the cross is the oldest and most recognizable of all symbols, few UNDERSTAND what IT means — and the significance and power behind it.
Today crosses are commonly worn as just another piece of jewelry or seen afixed to church buildings and when seen, most people give little or no thought to it, but if they came to understand the power behind it, they would realize that it is THE single most significant of all symbols!
You see, the cross is a powerful parable in wood of a true story that happened over two thousand years ago where an innocent man died —not for HIS crimes — but for the crimes of all people in all times - past, present and future, and that was Jesus Christ.
If you have never seriously considered who Christ is, why he died, and the power of the cross, today is the day you ought look seriously at understanding this mystery, and come to the “...full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ.” (Colossians 2:2)
Friend, if there is ANY One Symbol that essential to understand, it is this one.
God Bless Your Day Jesus Loves You NotesOnLife.org
Jesus’ command - “Take up your cross and follow Me” is much more than a symbol of the difficulties, frustrations and pain we as humans experience in this life. Taking up one’ s cross and following Jesus is something completely different.
Because the cross was an instrument of death, Jesus is referring to our commitment to Him, even unto death, meaning that our obedience to the extreme measure and willingness to die is a vital part of truly being His disciple.
Death on a cross was extremely painful and humiliating, so as followers of Christ He expects us to likewise be willing to endure pain or humiliation for Him — no matter what the cost.
This word picture of 'taking up your cross' paints for us the concept of “death to self” which originates in another saying of Christ in Luke 9:24-25, “For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?” The truth is that NOTHING in this life is worth keeping if it means losing eternal life! Not a job, family, friends, or even your own identity. Discipleship at the core means DISCIPLINE — No Matter What The Cost — but the eternal reward is well worth the temporary pain.
Friend, taking up your cross to follow Christ simply means commitment and obedience to living a disciplined life of obedience to God even if it means giving up your worldly hopes, dreams, possessions - or even your very life if need be.
Christian, are you willing to Take Up That Cross?
God Bless Your Day Jesus Loves You NotesOnLife.org