I will walk before the Lord, in the land of the living. — Psalm 114:9

Mass Readings: Isaiah 50:5-9a / James 2:14-18 / Mark 8:27-35 

My Cross 

As my children entered young adulthood, “how do I know when I’m following God’s will?” was a common question as we discussed their future. Today’s Gospel offers a reliable strategy: “Whoever wishes to come after Me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” 

To take up my cross may or may not involve suffering. That’s not the point. The goal is to see and accept my life as a gift from God. All of it. What I like, what I don’t like. What I’m thankful for — and what I don’t understand, even when it involves suffering. Like Jesus, I take up what is given to me, knowing it was given in love. And I can do this because, also like Jesus, I trust my Father loves me. 

Prayer: I want to follow You, Jesus. Show me the way.