Toyi Mthembu

Take Your Cross and Follow Jesus Toyi Mthembu

What does it mean to "take up your cross and follow Jesus" Mark 8:34. We are to take up our crosses; our struggles, as the cross symbolizes our pain and sufferings. Let us meditate on them together as our Lord's testament to a world wrecked by sin, bowed down by needs of healing in body, mind and spirit. They reveal God's answer to our basic needs. At the cross there is Forgiveness, Salvation, Love, Atonement, Suffering, Victory and Security. If you are consumed with grief, remember that Jesus bore your grief; when overwhelmed with sorrows, He carried your sorrow; when trapped in a life of transgression, He was wounded for your transgressions. Jesus paid the price for your salvation, your liberation, your physical healing, and for your complete restoration. When the price for your forgiveness was complete, Jesus bowed His head and died. Before taking your cross; even when forgiveness feels difficult and Impossible, just learn to forgive because forgiveness is essential for your spiritual growth. The thoughts of resentment, anger and hatred represent slow, draining energies that will dis-empower you if you continue to let them occupy space in your heart - just release them and have peace. Father! Forgive us!