Divine Dispatch
Luke 9:23-24
Cross Carriers: Following Jesus with Courage
Verse Of The Day:
"Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.’" (Luke 9:23-24)
Imagine carrying something heavy like a backpack full of rocks. It can feel hard, but sometimes, following Jesus feels a little like that. In Luke 9:23-24, Jesus tells us that to follow Him, we have to “take up our cross” each day. But what does that mean? It means being ready to make choices that might be hard, choosing to do what’s right even when it’s not easy, and putting God’s plans before our own.
Sometimes, following Jesus means giving up things we want in order to live the way He teaches us. It’s not always comfortable, but when we put Jesus first, we’re walking the path that leads to real life—life that’s full of God’s love, joy, and purpose.
Jesus carried the cross for us, showing us what real love and sacrifice look like. When we follow His example and carry our own “crosses” each day—whether it’s helping someone when we don’t feel like it, being kind when it’s hard, or trusting God even when we don’t understand—we’re growing closer to Jesus and experiencing the true life He promises us.
Cross of Courage Craft:
Create a “Cross of Courage” at home! Find a wooden stick or use cardboard to cut out the shape of a cross. Decorate it with words and symbols that remind you of what it means to follow Jesus, like “Sacrifice,” “Love,” “Courage,” or “Trust.” Each day, look at your cross and think about one way you can “carry your cross” by doing something that puts Jesus first. This activity helps kids remember that following Jesus takes courage, and that each small act of faith brings them closer to Him.
Time For A Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank You for showing us what true love and sacrifice look like. Help us to carry our cross each day and to follow You, even when it’s hard. Give us the courage to put You first and to make choices that honor You. Teach us that by losing our lives for You, we find the real, joyful life that You promise. Amen.
Keep carrying your cross, Faith Force Cross Carriers! Until our next Divine Dispatch, remember that every time you put Jesus first, you’re following the path of real life. Let’s take up our crosses with courage, knowing that Jesus is with us every step of the way.