Taking Up A Cross

Last week we discussed fasting or abstinence which involves “giving something up.” Instead, others “take up” a cross that will be difficult but manageable. “Taking up” something is about our participation in what God is already doing in our lives and choosing to let the Holy Spirit work inside us, for our own good. While Lenten practices may seem difficult, it is nothing compared to what our Lord endured. His suffering was for our good and so are these new or new to us spiritual practices. Here is an example of “taking something up,” some people will add kinder self-talk. In doing so they will automatically remove being hyper critical of themselves. They will stop being so cynical. It is hard to hold both inside yourself simultaneously. Others may “take up” a short-term mission project like sewing hats for infants in the hospital or having the hard conversation with a loved-one that is long overdue. Whatever you “take up” may you see quickly that God is with you and working on you, for your good!

In Christ,
Pastor Elyse