Text Box: It is hard to imagine that this whole idea of cross bearing is challenging and yet can actually be an enviable activity.  When we take under consideration and understand what Jesus said in; Luke 14:27; “And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” 

In these words we hear Jesus revealing to us that each one of us have our own personal cross to bear and that one of the tests of my discipleship rest on my willingness to bear my cross. 

Often the challenges of life and living may seem to become overwhelming and impossible to bear. I may have a particular challenge in my life that makes me feel alone in my struggle, such that I may even look at others and envy their life over my own thinking that “My brother’s burdens are so much lighter than mine.”  

Yet I must realize that the weight of the cross I bear is conditional to the power given to me by my Father to bear my cross, which is also contingent upon my willingness to bear it, realizing also that My Cross is designed and fashioned just for me! 

The truth in these words really strikes home when I understand that I must bear my own cross and no one can bear mine for me if I am to be a disciple of Christ.


Here is a parable, of the relationship of a man and his burden.

A man, weighed down with his care and sorrow, stumbled into a cross makers shop and wearily removed his cross from his shoulder. 

To the cross maker he said: “I want to exchange my burden.  This one is too heavy for me to carry. I sway and fall under the load.” “Very well, you may take your pick of all these crosses and decide which suits you best.” Said the cross maker, as he watched attentively. 

Gladly the man approached the stack of crosses and began lifting them one after the other to his shoulder. The first was very light for a moment or two but as he walked about testing it, he concluded that it would not do for it soon became heavier than his old one. So he tried another, and another, and another, still another, until at last he found one lighter than all the rest. 

“I can carry this one easily,” he said. “May I have this one?” “Yes, you may take it,” replied the cross maker smiling, but that is the one you brought in with you”. 

So, man is upon the road once more, satisfied with his burden and conscious that his load is less wearisome then that of others. For, though the burden that life press upon us may bring discouragement, our neighbors cross is often heavier.   


Enjoying the Journey..  Tim	Next Message: Be Perfect! That’s an Order

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  John Chapter 3, verse 16 (NIV)

Sheridan Road Church of Christ

Sheridan Road Church of Christ

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  John Chapter 3, verse 16 (NIV)

The Cross Designed For Me

 

“And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Luke Chapter 14, verse 27