The Cross We Bear 

   “Everyone in the world has a cross, but the cross is not the same for any two of us.” (Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen) 

   There is no resurrection without the cross.  If we refuse to accept and willingly carry the crosses we are called to bear in this life we are unworthy of the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross He bore.

   Some bear heavy crosses, some have a lighter burden to bear.  Perhaps the cross we are to carry is in harmony with our ability and the state of our spiritual strength and determination.  Should the Lord insist those who are of weaker or less ardent faith carry an excessive burden, the result could easily be a turning away, a refusal to even try.

   Someone who can’t do simple math certainly can’t jump into the middle of calculus and have any hope of success.  Just as a baby cannot eat steak, one who is new to faith cannot carry a heavy load.  One who is new to faith, still taking baby steps toward God, must be treated differently than one who is experienced. 

   As we progress in our faith life and our love of God and desire to serve Him the crosses may become more difficult due to our increased strength in faith; we are better able to carry a more onerous cross because we have more trust in the love and help of God in our efforts.  However, we can never doubt that we will have crosses to bear, and we must bear them bravely and willingly. 

   Jesus said, “Anyone who wishes to follow me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” (Matt 16: 24).   There is no path to heaven which does not include the cross.