My Cross to Bear

 

Some days, I wear a gold or silver cross around my neck. It reminds me of my Savior’s sacrifice and resurrection and gives me hope for today and a promise for tomorrow. I feel its weight, not as a burden, but as a quiet declaration. But does wearing a cross make me a Christian?

If ever there was a time to stand set apart, it is now. Our world feels heavy with hostility and fractured by brokenness. Yet, as believers, we are called to live above the noise. The beloved disciple John didn’t mince words when he reminded us that faith isn’t something we simply wear or claim—it’s how we live. Our lives, our choices, should reflect the royal lineage we belong to.

In royal families, there are protocols—expectations of honor, dignity, and responsibility. They don’t carry their titles lightly, nor do they forget who they represent. And neither should we.
John writes in 1 John 2:3-6: “We know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commands. Whoever says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys His word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in Him: Whoever claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did.” That’s our royal protocol.

As children of the King of Kings, the Holy Spirit gently nudges us to rise above the ordinary. We’re not meant to blend in or adopt the language of the world. We speak differently because we belong to a different Kingdom. Our words, like royalty, should echo grace, forgiveness, love, and peace. Through our lives, we extend the invitation to others, reminding them they, too, are cherished members of God’s family.

Wearing a cross is beautiful, but living as a reflection of Christ is even more powerful. Whether we wear it or not, we are called to be Christ-bearers—ambassadors of love to a world in desperate need. It is our identity, our privilege, and our responsibility.

This old hymn still rings true:
"I'll tell the world that I'm a Christian.
I'm not ashamed, His name to bear.
I'll tell the world that I'm a Christian.
I'll take Him with me anywhere."

Lord, may we follow You with hearts full of love and hands ready to serve. Amen.