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“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
(Matthew 16:24)

During Lent we have been following the Jesus way. And in this Holy Week we read about one of the greatest challenges ever faced by disciples of Jesus in any generation. But what does it mean to deny ourselves, to take up our cross and follow Christ? First, we are to refuse worldly desires. Whether they be fame, fortune or status, selfishness, joyless grabs for happiness or uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions. Instead, we must choose the will and way of God. Second, we are to face hardship, persecution and suffering as Jesus did. Remembering that, “great is our reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:12). And third, we are to follow Christ. Not only to the place of suffering (Calvary) but to resurrection. Remembering “in Christ all will be made alive” (1 Corinthians 15:22). As we gaze upon His cross this Easter. As we gaze upon His empty grave. As we gaze upon His glorious resurrection, let’s deny ourselves, pick up our cross and follow Him because “He is the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Amen.