When we look at the cross, we often think of everything Jesus endured—the nails, the pain, the crown of thorns. But Pastor Hector reminded us that the cross is more than a symbol of suffering; it’s a call to a lifestyle of surrender.
If we truly value what Jesus did for us, the cross won’t just hang on our walls or around our necks—it will shape how we live every single day.
A Daily Commitment
Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).
That one word—daily—is the key. Following Jesus isn’t a Sunday event. It’s what happens on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, when the tests and temptations come.
Taking up your cross means surrendering control, laying down your own desires, and letting Christ lead. It’s not a one-time decision—it’s a daily act of obedience.
The Cross Calls Us to Obedience and Sacrifice
Philippians 2:8 says, “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.”
Jesus’ obedience brought salvation to the world. In the same way, our obedience—though it may cost us comfort, convenience, or reputation—produces eternal fruit.
The cross is not a place of comfort, but of commitment.
When we tell God, “Whatever it takes, I will follow You,” we mean surrendering everything. True obedience always requires faith—trusting that His plan is better than ours.
Crucify the Flesh and Live by the Spirit
Galatians 5:24 reminds us, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
Sin begins as a thought, but discipleship means we crucify those desires before they take root.
Carrying your cross means forgiving when it hurts, showing grace when it’s easier to judge, and choosing love when it costs you something. To follow Jesus, we can’t stay bound by the flesh—we must walk in the Spirit.
The Cross Is a Direction, Not a Decoration
The cross isn’t meant to decorate our homes; it’s meant to direct our lives.
Following Jesus means walking the same road He walked—the road of humility, sacrifice, and victory.
There is no resurrection without crucifixion.
Through death comes life. When we die to self, we find purpose, power, and peace in Christ. The cross isn’t the end—it’s the doorway to victory.
Stay Spiritually Charged
Pastor Hector compared our spiritual life to a phone battery. Sunday morning is the time to recharge, but if we only plug in once a week, we’ll be running on empty by Wednesday.
When we stay connected to God through prayer, worship, and His Word, our spiritual “battery” stays full. Others will see the light of Christ in us.
“Don’t just wear the cross,” Pastor Hector said, “bear it. Let others see the cross in your attitude, your love, and your obedience.”
A Daily Reflection
At the end of each day, ask yourself:
- Did I live for Christ today?
- Did I carry my cross faithfully?
- What can I do tomorrow to draw closer to Him?
Every morning we can declare, “Today will be the best day of my life,” and every night we can pray, “Lord, help me carry my cross again tomorrow.”
What Cross Has God Asked You to Carry?
As the message closed, Pastor Hector posed two powerful questions:
- What cross is God asking you to carry today?
- Are you willing to surrender your will, take up your cross, and follow Him daily?
Because the cross is not a burden to fear—it’s a direction to follow and a promise of victory.
Key Scriptures:
Luke 9:23–25 | Galatians 5:24 | Philippians 2:8 | James 4:10 | 2 Timothy 1:7 | 1 John 2:15 | Galatians 2:20