~"Take Up Your Cross"~

In distress, I knelt at the foot of His cross. The thoughts went as a whirlwind through my mind: "I have tried again and again to be a genuine Christian--to be Christ-like, but...I fail so often. It almost never works."

With a tear stained face, I looked into the blood washed the beautiful, spotless face of the perfect Lamb of Calvary--my Redeemer.  "Why should He, who never sinned, die on the cross and not me, a retched sinner.?" The One who knows my deepest thoughts whispered compassionately, "My daughter, I died so that you can have the joy, love, and peace that passes all understanding; and live with me for eternity. I LOVE you! This is why I'm on this cross instead of you."

There was a moment of silence. I stared at the ground. I could feel His love for me.

I looked up again and pleaded, "My Saviour, then what shall I do to be saved?" He said, "My child, "Take up your cross, and follow me."

In discouragement, I said, "I have tried so many times to take up my cross, but...." He said, "Dear Sharon, you can do all  things through My strength. Let Me help you carry your cross, for without Me, it is impossible to be like me. You have tried to lift it up on your own, but will you, now, let me help you?"

"Yes, Lord, please help me for I am week and need your strength!" And as He and I lifted up and carried my cross, I exclaimed, "My King, indeed your burden is light! I want you to help me carry it all the way. No more do I want to try to take up and carry my cross all by myself."

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My dear friend, The Lamb of Calvary is tenderly calling you, "Take up your cross and follow me."

Will you let Him help you?