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Today's Gospel: Mt. 16:24-28

I can tell you that I'm not naturally inclined to carry crosses. If the whole enterprise has anything going for it, it's that the Lord Jesus carried the cross to end them all. "As a lamb before the shearers is silent, he opened not his mouth."

As for the bit about saving your life by losing it, permit me the plainest reading: Whatever God has planned is better than anything you might want to cling to. The battle for holiness and sanctity is not for later, and it's not theoretical; it's right here and now. I'd be more sensitive about alleged sacramental treadmills if I didn't know two things: this fight is a little more intense than a stern workout; and if Jesus says He gives the sacred signs, I believe Him, and I do not disdain them.

I find I tend toward vain curiosity regarding the rest, but I want to be able to say, quite apart from whatever I might be carrying, "'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus/Just to take Him at his word."
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