ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
October 22, 2022
In Matthew 10:38-39, Jesus said, “…and whoever does not take up the cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it.” What does it mean to take up the cross when there is no longer a government sanctioned crucifixion?
Dr. Amy-Jill Levine writes in her thought-provoking book, The Misunderstood Jew, “Whenever a new religious movement, political view, or social practice emerges, some resistance is to be expected, usually from the representatives of the status quo. As long as Peter and his colleagues lived in relative obscurity… they would not have come to the attention of Rome’s local allies, the Jerusalem establishment. But as the movement began to spread, danger followed. To proclaim the resurrection of an individual is one thing; to proclaim that the Messiah was a man crucified by Rome was something else entirely… To proclaim oneself a follower of Jesus consequently meant to risk ridicule, ostracism, and even persecution” (Harper One ©2006, p. 55).
In reading Levine’s comments, I am left wondering once again, what does it mean to take up the cross in the 21st century here in the United States? I’m not entirely sure, yet I would suggest cross-carrying today will include a life that runs contrary to popular beliefs and politics, including ideologies sanctimoniously supporting greed, hatred and violence. Our lives should be unmistakably different, and by different, we are suggesting a love, mercy and kindness that most of the status quo will find offensive, if not dangerous.
O Lord whose ways are those of the cross, provide strength within my convictions so my life is never confused with cultural values masquerading as good religion. Amen.
