Carry Your Cross

Jesus… When you said, “Take up your cross, and follow me?” What did you mean, Jesus? What did you mean? That cross…that I have to bear… It seems too heavy for me I’m crushed under the load Weighed down… Suffocating…. Unable to breathe Much less move I can hardly carry myself around, Jesus And now I must carry it as well? What is that cross, Jesus? Are you sure I can bear it? Is it the cross of self-denial? It is my crucified pride? My unruly desires? My self-indulgent will? My selfish dreams? Jesus, is it that love That threatens to consume me Is it that love That cannot…that SHOULD not be mine That you want me to crucify On this cross That you want me to bear? Remember, Jesus Remember, Lord… Please, remember That I am weak I’m only human Fragile Frail Doubtful Afraid Most of all unwilling... Jesus... I balk at the pain I must endure But….I know I KNOW…. You can help me carry this cross For you carried a much bigger one That had nailed on it All my insecurities and pain Right along with your bleeding hands That covered those sins And washed them in red and made them Whiter…much whiter than snow Jesus…help me bear it This cross is too heavy for my frail shoulders Please, hold me in your embrace Secure me… Cover me with your strong arms Let your shoulders bear the weight Once again…. As you carry this cross.. My cross For me. Eileen Manassian Ghali