[Jesus addressed the crowds:] “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:27

I’ve carried a number of crosses in my life. The cross of grief and loss. The cross of pain. The cross of betrayal. The cross of assault. The cross of unjust treatment.

I am learning that the suffering I experience is an invitation to deeper intimacy with Jesus who knows from his own experience what human suffering is all about. I am learning to draw on the resources God has given me to help with the mission of Christ: love, goodness, peace, compassion, forgiveness, and mindful attention to the needs of others. I am learning to keep my heart and mind open to welcome the sustaining power of God’s counsel, wisdom, and kindness in each moment.

Today—no matter what cross I am bearing—I will trust the Lord’s intention is to lead me to deeper spiritual healing.