Read Luke 9:21-27
Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me”
Luke 9:23
The cross is at the heart of Jesus’ conditions for discipleship. He tells us if we want to follow him, we must deny ourselves and pick up our cross. It’s not the best marketing plan if one wants to attract followers, but Jesus isn’t afraid to lead with hard truths. Carrying the cross is not reserved for exceptional moments such as martyrdom but is a daily challenge involving dying to oneself so as to belong to the Lord more completely. This involves a spiritual battle as our day on the Golan Heights reminds us. But as we walk through Banias, we remember that this same Lord who asks of us complete devotion, is our Good Shepherd (Ps 23:1)
Self-denial moves our heart to be able to say a greater yes to Jesus and to follow the Good Shepherd with perseverance.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,[a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever (Psalm 23)