Risen Lord,
I come before You with an open heart, illuminated by the light of Easter morning, yet still full of questions. Do I have what it takes to truly follow You into new life? Am I ready to sacrifice all that I have and put You, the victor over death, first in my life?
I know You have said:
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:26).
Lord, looking at Your empty tomb, I realize that only when I put You completely first can I truly and joyfully love and serve those I hold most dear. Help me to be able to do this. Become the source of all my relationships, so that Your resurrection love may be what binds us together and overcomes every darkness.
Carrying the Cross in the Hope of Resurrection
Lord, Your resurrection brings meaning and redemption. Do I carry my cross as You taught me by Your example? Am I prepared to endure it, knowing that trials and suffering do not have the final word, but Your life does?
I know Your words:
“Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:27).
Do I take up this cross and walk with it lovingly, with my gaze fixed on Your ultimate victory? Risen Lord, I pray that You fill me with the power of Your Spirit this day.
May I truly become Your disciple. Forgive my hesitation and the moments when I fall beneath my cross or look for a path around You.
Help me nurture a readiness in my heart to surrender my own plans and follow You. May my faith in Your resurrection be firm and sincere, and my devotion complete.
Amen. Alleluia.
`AMEN!!!!