The cross of Jesus-my only option for release.
Too often I look for peace, for relief, for joy, some other way. It might be escapism, yes, but in my case I believe it is a simple lack of trust. And a strong sense of self that keeps me from giving up the trifles I hold so dear.
Psalm 55:22 says, "Cast thy burden upon the Lord and He shall sustain thee." I often claim this blessing without considering my obligations. I expect instant rest, freedom from anything uncomfortable...in short, very smooth sailing.
I claim the promise of Jesus-"Come unto me and I will give you rest"-only to be shocked by remembering that His rest is found only when I embrace the cross. I shrink at the foot of Calvary, casting about in my mind for any other way.
The paradox is this: if I shrink from the suffering of the Cross, my burdens will only gain in power. But as I draw near, anxiety snaps, sin flees, and fear is overcome by perfect love.
Pretty amazing. Although I cannot deny that to identify with the sufferings of my Savior looks daunting at times, even impossible. The enemy tries to make it look even more so.
By faith I tiptoe closer, holding my breath. Remembering that although suffering is bound to be my lot here on earth, His presence is greater than anything I will ever face. Remembering that in the light of His face I will find perfect joy. Remembering-for I cannot help it-all the self-denial, pain and suffering this will require of me.
Then I realize I know a secret. “Looking unto Jesus..." With eyes of faith, I visualize the One who was crucified for me. I find that as I fix my eyes on Him, I forget the fears that tormented me only moments before.
Looking unto Jesus. Embracing His Cross. All burdens removed.
Glory.
Too often I look for peace, for relief, for joy, some other way. It might be escapism, yes, but in my case I believe it is a simple lack of trust. And a strong sense of self that keeps me from giving up the trifles I hold so dear.
Psalm 55:22 says, "Cast thy burden upon the Lord and He shall sustain thee." I often claim this blessing without considering my obligations. I expect instant rest, freedom from anything uncomfortable...in short, very smooth sailing.
I claim the promise of Jesus-"Come unto me and I will give you rest"-only to be shocked by remembering that His rest is found only when I embrace the cross. I shrink at the foot of Calvary, casting about in my mind for any other way.
The paradox is this: if I shrink from the suffering of the Cross, my burdens will only gain in power. But as I draw near, anxiety snaps, sin flees, and fear is overcome by perfect love.
Pretty amazing. Although I cannot deny that to identify with the sufferings of my Savior looks daunting at times, even impossible. The enemy tries to make it look even more so.
By faith I tiptoe closer, holding my breath. Remembering that although suffering is bound to be my lot here on earth, His presence is greater than anything I will ever face. Remembering that in the light of His face I will find perfect joy. Remembering-for I cannot help it-all the self-denial, pain and suffering this will require of me.
Then I realize I know a secret. “Looking unto Jesus..." With eyes of faith, I visualize the One who was crucified for me. I find that as I fix my eyes on Him, I forget the fears that tormented me only moments before.
Looking unto Jesus. Embracing His Cross. All burdens removed.
Glory.
I take, O Cross, thy shadow
for my abiding place.
I ask no other sunshine
than the sunshine of His face.
Content to let the world go by,
to know no gain nor loss;
my sinful self my only shame,
my glory all the cross.
-Elizabeth Clephane
