"Bearing Your Cross"

This passage of scripture is often misinterpreted to mean hardships, trials, or afflictions in the Christian's life. Life in itself will be filled with numerous storms, hardships, battles and troubles both for the saved and the lost. Thus, this verse has to deal with another aspect of the Christian life. What, then, does bearing a cross mean? First, our verses, Matthew 16: 21-24, speak of the cross of rejection. Jesus was about to be rejected. As a disciple of His, we, too, may be called upon to suffer rejection of family, friends, and co-workers.

Second, it is a cross of reckoning. Peter was rebuked by Jesus when he objected to Jesus' suffering his death on the cross, "Thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men." We bear our cross when we reckon the things of God to be of great value.

Next, it is a cross of restraint. "Let him deny himself," are the words Jesus used. Sadly, most people live for self instead of denying self.

Finally, it is a cross of redirection. No longer do we lead -- but, JESUS LEADS. Where He leads, we must follow. Here is the question to consider -- who are you following, and where are you headed?

February 28th, 2016

From the Pastor,

James H. Baker