Monday 11 July

Isaiah 1: 11-17; Psalm 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; Matthew 10: 34 –11:1

Taking up the cross

Being a follower of Christ will often demand difficult choices. At times we may have to risk losing the friendship and love of someone very dear to us: a parent, a son or daughter, a dear friend. How often have I adjusted my words or my decisions so that no one will get hurt or maybe think I am old-fashioned or childish! We might justify ourselves, using the excuse of kindness or tact. However, there is no doubt that to truly follow Christ we will need to be prepared to take up our cross, to lose our lives and give them over to him. He assures us of the reward!