I heard a message recently about how carrying a cross is symbolic of defying the norm. Living life differently from those around us puts us in a position of opposition. But isn’t that exactly what Jesus did? He didn’t meet people’s expectations, but only the Father’s. As a result, He was rejected by many and eventually killed. But here’s the good news-He was rewarded by the Father, “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Heb.12:1-2).
The cross was never meant to make sense to everyone, anyway, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1:18). I don’t know about you, but I’ve learned to carry my cross with pride. I’m not ashamed to stand out. I want to identify with Christ’s sufferings so I can also share in His resurrection.
Rising with the Son 