The answer is: Their cross

Mark 8:34

In the Gospel of Mark, when Jesus instructs His followers to "take up their cross," He’s using imagery that’s not just about sacrifice, but about a radical commitment to the path of selflessness and service. In the time of Jesus, the cross represented the ultimate form of suffering and endurance, as crucifixion was a gruesome method of execution used by the Romans on those they deemed threats. Imagine the shock of His audience hearing this message!

The challenge of taking up one's cross meant denying one's selfish desires to instead embrace a life that prioritizes love, justice, and healing. This call is echoed throughout Scripture, like in Matthew 16:24, showcasing Jesus emphasizing the same lesson on several occasions: the idea of sharing in suffering for a greater purpose. Engaging with this concept invites not only introspection but a broader perspective on what it means to lead a meaningful life.

Trivia note: Did you know that the phrase "bearing one's cross" has transcended the biblical text, often used in both spiritual and everyday contexts today? It encourages resilience, reflecting how many find their purpose in contributing to the welfare of others and standing firm in their beliefs.

And while the physical act of carrying a cross is past, its essence—embracing struggles for betterment—remains deeply relevant. Many also see this as not only personal endurance but as collective action, uniting people in pursuit of justice and compassion in the world. So, what’s your “cross” today? It’s an invitation to reflect and respond.