Imagine Day 6

“Just keep the joy of Jesus as your strength...Accept whatever He gives and give whatever He takes, with a big smile...Tell Him, ‘I am Yours - and if you cut me to pieces, every single piece will be only all Yours.” - Mother Teresa

IMAGINE DAY 6

Today’s Scripture: “Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” - Mark 8:34

Today’s Thought: Jesus is asking anyone who follows Him to share in His sacrifice. You see, there is no manipulation with Jesus. He is quite honest: “lose life to find life;” “Take up your cross and follow me;” “Love enemies;” “Blessed are the persecuted.” He let His followers know from the get-go that following Him may make others - even family - hate them. Jesus’ approach is the opposite of what most of the world would do. He wraps the “good news” in the ugliest of wrappings, knowing that once someone has the guts to open the package, they will find the most beautiful of gifts! It is the paradox of the Gospel: death leads to life. Loss leads to gain. The last become first. Sharing Christ’s suffering leads to the power of His resurrection.

Today’s Prayer: Lord, I must be honest with You - sacrifice is not very appealing - but my deepest desire is to follow You at all costs. Give me the strength to embrace the cross, even as You did. And as I continue on this spiritual journey, make it very clear to me what you want me to sacrifice for love of You and Your kingdom!