The cross is central to the Christian faith. After all, Jesus says: “whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27).

Clearly, it’s not just about what he did, but about what we do.

It’s easy to forget how jarring the cross was (and is). We see it on buildings and wear it  around our necks. But those who were crucified by the Romans went through a horrific humiliation and torture ritual. Can you imagine wearing a symbol of an electric chair around your neck? That starts to get us close. But the cross was way worse.

When Jesus says we are to carry a cross, he is using a bold and jarring image to teach us a bold and jarring principle. We are to kill our own self-serving desires so that we can pattern our lives on him.

If a servant is not above their master, why would we expect an easy life when our master went to a cross?

Although difficult, it’s a straightforward concept, really. You can’t pursue Jesus’ priorities if you’re pursuing your priorities—unless, of course, your priorities are Jesus’ priorities.

So, what are those priorities? Love. Truth. Holiness. Justice. Mercy. Forgiveness. God’s will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

In the footsteps of Jesus we must attend to the way of the cross, no matter the cost.

“whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”

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–The latest episode of The Pulse Podcast goes deeper with the subject of today’s devotional. It’s called “Renouncement, torture, true freedom, and apprenticeship under Jesus.” It goes deeper with Luke 14:25-35. Click here to listen, or tune in wherever you listen to podcasts (iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or TuneIn).

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.