We might think about the cross as the ultimate embodiment of this idea. And we would be right. But what does it mean for us as Christians? For many we would think of martyrs who gave their life in defense of their faith. From Stephen, who is stoned to death in the book of Acts, to Cassie Bernall, who was killed in the Columbine shootings in 1999, there are thousands who have died for their faith in Christ.
Is this all there is to laying down your life?
In the book She Said Yes, written my Cassie Bernall’s mom, she recounts something that Cassie’s youth pastor said in one of the first Sunday services after the shootings:
Cassie struggled like everyone struggles, but she knew what she had to do to let Christ live in her. It’s called dying to yourself, and is has to be done daily. It means learning to break out of the selfish life…It’s not a negative thing, but a way of freeing yourself to live more fully.
The world looks at Cassie’s “yes” of April 20, but we need to look at the daily “yes” she said day after day, month after month, before giving that final answer.
Cassie’s story reminds us that laying down our life is not a one-time event or only a single act of the willingness to physically die. This is a life-long, daily endeavor. Laying down your life, dying to oneself is something we must pursue every day.
It shapes how we deal with gossip and temptation. It impacts our attitude towards our parents and our friends. When we see an outsider or outcast in school, it will determine our reaction.
Jesus tells us, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me.” (Mark 8:34) As you consider laying down your life, reflect on Jesus’ words and ask what selfish ways you need to turn from.
shine!
Jason
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