The Thursday Update

APRIL 10, 2025

Lakeshore Friends,

When we get a full, clear, and biblically accurate view of the cross, we see that it is a place where Jesus suffered on every possible level.

Physically, it was the most torturous death ever invented by humans. Emotionally, it meant that Jesus would be treated as unfairly as anyone has ever been treated. Relationally, Jesus was rejected by the majority of His own people, the nation of Israel, and mocked as a common criminal even though He was the innocent Son of God. And spiritually is where Jesus suffered the most, when He was forsaken by God the Father (Matthew 27:45-47 from Psalm 22:1-2) and took upon Himself every sin of every person who has ever lived (2 Corinthians 5:21) so that we might be reconciled with God and forgiven through faith in this infinitely valuable sacrifice.

It’s easy to see why that’s the case. But have you ever considered what the cross means to us and how we should view it? So few people and so few Christians really do.

I say that because of what Jesus said to those who wanted to follow Him in Luke 9:23 and again in Luke 14:25-27: “If anyone wants to follow Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me.”

There are lots of people who want to wear a cross, but precious few who want to carry a cross. And yet, that’s what Jesus calls us to do. And it really makes sense in light of the fact that Christians should want to be like Jesus… yes, even in our sufferings!

What crosses are you willing to bear if you are a true follower of Jesus? It may be a physical, emotional, relational, or spiritual cross that God has called you to bear. While always hard, it is the path we are called to if we take our faith seriously.

The good news? There’s always an Easter Sunday following Good Friday. God will do the same for us when we take up our crosses daily and follow him.

Warmly,
Vince