Carrying Your Cross: A Journey of Personal Growth
Have you ever noticed that, no matter where life takes you, you often encounter similar challenges and obstacles? It’s as if these hurdles or crosses are inescapable, persistently presenting themselves no matter how hard you try to avoid them. Imagine you’re a reserved individual who prefers peace over confrontation, yet you find yourself surrounded by argumentative personalities in every workplace you enter.
The Path to Triumph Begins with Bearing Your Cross
Through conversations with countless individuals, I’ve come to realize that when Jesus spoke of the sower casting his seeds, he wasn’t merely addressing different people facing various circumstances. Instead, it seems that the same person is sown with seeds repeatedly. Life brings us situations where, initially, we might feel ill-equipped to deal with them. However, over time, we gain the grace and strength needed to navigate these challenges. Our journey toward growth often involves experimenting with different approaches, knowing that there’s no guarantee of success. It’s through these trials that we learn and evolve, and it’s only when we confront these situations as Jesus intended that we experience the transformation He envisioned for us.
When a large crowd gathered, with people from one town after another
Luke 8:4-8
journeying to Jesus, he spoke in a parable.
“A sower went out to sow his seed.
And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path and was trampled,
and the birds of the sky ate it up.
Some seed fell on rocky ground, and when it grew,
it withered for lack of moisture.
Some seed fell among thorns,
and the thorns grew with it and choked it.
And some seed fell on good soil, and when it grew,
it produced fruit a hundredfold.”
After saying this, he called out,
“Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.”
Persistently Pursue Your Calling
Jesus never abandons us in our careers; He desires our success in the paths He has set before us. However, it’s often our own hesitation and reluctance that hinder us from fulfilling His purpose. Take, for instance, the scenario of the reserved individual. Jesus encourages us to navigate these situations with empathy, to become instruments of His love. If we withdraw from such challenges, He will continue to provide opportunities for our growth, reminding us that we are His children. Just as Jesus never shied away from sharing His Father’s love, we too can manifest His love in our workplaces.
The Strength of Humility
So, how can we grow in areas where we’ve previously turned away from our crosses? Humility is a potent antidote to our weaknesses and opportunities. Seek guidance from Jesus, a mentor, or a trusted confidant on how to move forward. It’s about finding your unique voice in responding to these challenges—a voice that mirrors how Jesus would handle these situations. Pray for guidance, and let Him lead you. Regardless of how others respond to your empathy, you’ll find contentment in knowing you’re on the path to becoming the person Jesus envisioned.
