Is anything more universal than the cross? We see it world-wide: on churches and walls, as jewelry and tattoos, and even on foreheads. For Christians, it symbolizes salvation. Jesus knew the cross was in His future. He also told His disciples that to be His follower, they needed to “take up their cross.” What did Jesus mean when he said to “take up your cross?”

The cross represents fulfilled prophecy. God revealed His plan to defeat Satan and give us salvation through Jesus Christ! 

The cross in Jesus’ day symbolized the brutal and shameful death of a slave or criminal. To Christians, the cross represents the most incredible gift we have ever received. It is a gift we can’t truly comprehend! We could never have asked for it and we know there is nothing we did to deserve it!

While Jesus was teaching the disciples about his impending death and resurrection, Peter takes Jesus aside and said, “Never, Lord! This shall never happen to you!”. Peter meant well; he loved Jesus and couldn’t bear to think of him suffering. He didn’t understand Jesus’ purpose yet. Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” This must have shocked the disciples. They were aware of what carrying a cross meant. Crucifixion was for criminals. The nails, the torment, and agony were well known. When Jesus told his followers, they must take up their cross to follow him, it didn’t sound like a pleasant proposition. It doesn’t sound like something anyone would willingly take part in.

But Jesus had a deeper meaning in mind. He wanted them to “put to death” their own plans and desires and turn their lives over to Him, doing his will. It would require self-denial and obedience. To follow Jesus, He asks for complete dedication and no turning back. Jesus tells us we must deny ourselves and take up our cross, but it’s not something that’s forced onto your shoulders.

“They that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lust.” Galatians 5:24

It’s a choice; something we do willingly, as Jesus did. We belong to Him- our old passions and desires are dead. When we take up our cross, our lives are focused on Jesus and reflect His attributes. Just the words “deny ourselves” sound like punishment. It sounds like we must throw away all our comforts and carry a heavy burden. Denying yourself is not the same as self-denial. When we deny self, we make the choice to replace our desires, thoughts, and plans with God’s thoughts and purposes. Jesus was the perfect example and when we choose to follow him, we agree to live as He did. This means accepting the call to do things you normally wouldn’t do!

How do we “Take Up Our Cross”

1.     Obedience to God

“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death- even death on a cross!” Philippians 2:8

2.     Guard Your Thoughts 

“…whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, whatsoever things are of a good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.

3.     Let Us Run the Race

When we take up our cross, we keep our eyes on Jesus. We lay aside the love of our possessions, our pride and accomplishments. We lay down anything that impedes working for His kingdom.