Also Published in the OnFire Magazine in April 2009.

Deny yourselves

I found that I often live to please myself. I can be selfish, working for my own personal achievements, pleasure and fulfilment. To deny ourselves we must live through Jesus, in Him, with Him and for Him only. We are called then to abandon all the things of this world so that we can possess God. Sacrificial living is not natural to me, but coming to college has helped me deal with my pride, selfishness and indulgence through a life of Prayer and communion with God.

Take up your cross daily

We know Jesus suffered and died. As members of Christ’s body we too are destined share this fate, it is part of our daily bread. I’ve found that the hard times- death, disease, destruction- are a necessary part of the training that we must undergo so that we might become more obedient and more willing to accept the Will of God.

By accepting my cross, I’m becoming more humble, able to be more patient, acknowledge my weaknesses and recognise the strength of God. Whatever He wills is perfect and will mould us to His liking. The cross is not a punishment; it is a gift of God to make us holy, a price for our reward and the Throne of our King.

Follow me

I know that as I follow the Lord, I must imitate his life of love and compassion, to God and our neighbour. I must be prepared to share with others my time, my love, my faith and my belongings if necessary.

In a way I’ve accepted the cross, I’m prepared to follow the Lord to Calvary, I’ve allowed my sinfulness, passions, pride, wickedness, and temptations from the world, the devil and the flesh, to be crucified. Hallelujah!

There is nothing that beats doing the thing God wants you to do. Is the Lord is calling you to deny yourself, to take up the cross and follow him? Respond today and talk to your CO about exploring your calling.