We all come to crossroads in our life, when we are forced to chose a direction. We stand still at those times, wondering which path to take, which road will lead us to our true destiny.
I wonder if that is the better meaning of the word "cross" that Jesus speaks of. In our world of negative tendencies, we often make the description physical, and tag the image of him dying on it. As though suffering is the only way. But the cross should mean more than just dying. I think we should see the cross as a symbol of life, as a sign of the decisions we make at crucial times, decisions that will impact where we go and our ultimate destiny.
I think there is a spirituality that encourages us to hand over our decision making in spiritual matters to those in the church. As if we cannot be trusted, as if any mistake we might make would be catastrophic. Sad. Because to truly be on a journey means to take risks and knows mistakes. And a spiritual life that is not fraught with insecurities, disillusionment, and confusion offers little chance of practicing faith, hope and trust.
Choices confront us constantly, and I would like to think this is what Jesus means when he says, "take up your cross and follow me." Not that life must be one long journey of suffering; but that life requires constant decision making. Carrying our cross should mean carrying our responsibility and learning from it. Such a spirituality is solid, built on constant discernment. And what is discernment but standing before the face of God, and knowing he is God.
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