Thursday 19th February – Thursday after Ash Wednesday
Reflection: Luke 9: 22-25
TAKE UP YOUR CROSS
Crucifixion was a torturous means of execution used by the Romans for many criminals during the first century. It symbolized shame and rejection; hence, Jesus’ followers must have been taken aback when he told them that following Him would demand “carrying their crosses daily”. Yet, His words would become real to them as He carried His own cross to the place of His crucifixion. Dear young friend, Jesus words remain as true and relevant today as they were 20 centuries back. He says to you and I: “If you want to be my follower, renounce yourself, take up your cross everyday and follow me…what gain is it if you win the whole world and ruin or lose your very self?” (Luke 9: 23, 25)
The season of Lent brings that call more to our awareness. As you journey with Jesus through the Stations of the Cross this season, think about the crosses you are called to carry: it may be an unpleasant situation at home, school or work; putting up with a very difficult person; persecution on account of your faith; financial difficulties or some struggles in your personal life and journey of faith. Our joy is that we do not carry the cross alone – we carry it behind our master who knows all things and desires to form us into better disciples through those crosses. Let us trust Him to strengthen us as we carry our crosses and follow Him faithfully.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, you carried your cross to Calvary without complaining. Please forgive me for the times I have complained about my crosses and help me to carry them faithfully and trustfully. Amen.
KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 277- What are the Stations of the Cross?
Following Jesus on his Way of the Cross by praying and meditating on the fourteen Stations is a very ancient devotion in the Church, which is practiced especially in Lent and Holy week.
HIDE A TREASURE: “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” Luke 9:24 RSV-CE
Today’s Readings: Deuteronomy 30: 15-20; Psalm 1: 1-6; Luke 9: 22-25
Catholic Devotional for Youth 
Some of the things we refer to as ‘cross’ change over time. And some of them can be handled by making certain decisions/changes in our lives e.g an unpleasant boss.
I point this out so we don’t feel the need to just sit back and do nothing and say, ‘this is my cross, I will carry it.’ For me it’s more a walking in the will of God concerning that situation while keeping faith and avoiding worry/complaining.
The cross in this part of scripture for me refers more to the sacrifices we have to make for the sake of Christ and the backlash we may face as a result of that decision.
You are right dear.
We’re not to carry our burdens…those belong to Jesus (Matt 11:28). It’s our crosses we’re to carry and follow Him faithfully.
Christ’s own cross lasted only a while and was followed ultimately by glory.
Thanks for the comment.
Do have a fruitful Lent.