The cross was central to Jesus' life and mission, and it should be central to the lives of his followers. Taking up one's cross means willingly sacrificing one's own interests to serve and follow Jesus each day. It involves denying oneself, prioritizing God, opening one's heart to God, and working for Jesus by living according to his teachings. True life is found not in earthly things but by completely trusting in Jesus and obeying him through faith until death.

2. Introduction War story: How do you work this thing? Let us answer some questions so we may learn how to live my life, His way! How important was the cross to Jesus? What ought Jesus cross mean to me? What is my cross? How do I take up -- my cross?

3. The Cross Is the Heart! Peter learned the hard way. Mark 8:27-35 Paul taught the heart is the Cross of Christ. 1 Cor. 2:2 Learn what Paul and Peter did. The cross life is heaven’s plan for eternal life. 1 Pet. 2:21 Have you “crossed” your heart? 1 Cor. 11:1

4. Jesus Way… Is for us to deny ourself , take up our cross daily and follow Him . Luke 9:23-24 My LIFE decision every day… P rioritize Mark 12:30-31 O pen my heart to God Luke 9:57-62 W ork for Jesus Colossians 3:23-24 Because if you love God, you’ll love others and yourself ultimately. Jn. 14:15; Mt. 7:12

5. My Cross… If Jesus means everything to me, I willfully follow and serve Him everyday. Mt. 11:28-30 My cross is not… My sickness, or disease My bad circumstance Anything I did not choose. My cross is my life choice of willful service, dedication, and sacrifice, living His WAY.

6. Taking Up Your Cross Realize the crucified life every day. Gal. 2:20 Not I live, but Christ lives in me. 2 Cor. 4:5-18 Live by faith: Complete trust in & obedience to Him. Love Him back: 1 John 4:19 Die for Jesus daily: 1 Cor. 15:31 Taking up your cross means you willingly bear it to the death of self, so you can find true life in Christ. 1 Jn. 5:20; Eccl. 12:13; Eph. 1:3

7. Jesus Draws Us By The Cross John 12:32 How to come unto Jesus and be saved. Believe His death for your sins on the cross, His burial and resurrection. 1 Cor. 15:3-4 Repent of the sinful life Acts 11:18 Confess your faith in Jesus Romans 10:9-10 Baptism into Christ Romans 6:3-6; Mk. 16:16