THE CROSS BEARERS

The world as we see it, has been going downhill. As the days pass by, it seems to get worse. The levels of patience, tolerance, long-suffering, forgiveness and love are certainly on the wane, if not vanished all together. The ugliness of the fallen heart is out in the open.

The Christian worldview is not only mocked, but also hated. Insults are not the only things hurled at Christians, but hate and hurt are actively pursued. Persecution of Christians is now a world wide phenomenon, actively and intentionally pursued.

Many times we seem to be protesting such situations. We seem to point to the law, and the rights we as Christians are entitled to. It sounds great in theory, but we tend to forget that we live in a fallen world. A world that treated Jesus Christ of Nazareth very badly, and had crucified Him, knowing fully well that He is innocent. This is not only a terrible tragedy, but the true reflection of the world and all its systems.

Leonard Ranvenhill says – “Why do we expect to be better treated in this world, than Jesus?” Instead of “cribbing” and complaining, we ought to do what Jesus had pointedly asked us – “38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. 39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 10:38-39.

This is the primary responsibility of the redeemed sinner. Are we bearing the cross well? Do we still believe, we have hope of justice, equality and fairness through the systems of the world. May sound pessimistic and cynical, but sadly, this is the reality.

Let us take up our cross and walk worthy of our calling.