Day 5. The Foolishness of the Cross

Day 5 — The Foolishness of the Cross

Writer: Cathy // Divergent Church Queanbeyan

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18; Philippians 3:10; Romans 1:16

Prayer Focus: A life that reflects the cross

Reflection:

I’m feeling like a bit of a fool, asking the headmaster if I can start a scripture program in his high school. Our region is full of the affluent and educated who scoff at old ladies teaching outdated ideas. I feel their scorn: “We don’t need religion, just better education.” What was I thinking??

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing…”

The cross is not pretty. It’s an instrument of torture and humiliation and death. Why would the Creator of the stars allow himself to be degraded by it? It makes no sense.

The cross is foolishness…

But when we are honest, there is no other way. Even on our best days, we break our own rules, let alone God’s. Who can say they have never had an unkind thought, or a selfish motivation? To accept the cross, I must pour contempt on all my pride.

Only then can I see the cross as good news. Though I fail to make the grade, Jesus took the test for me, handing me his exam paper in place of my own dismal effort.

Every day I get to rest in the righteousness that is by faith in Christ. And the more I rest in it, the more it changes me.

“… to us being saved, the cross is the power of God.”

So,

“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection …”

Yes, Lord send power!

“… and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death …”

To live out the cross is to live sacrificially. Preferring others. Being obedient to God whatever the cost. Allowing the wounds of this life to be taken up and wrapped in his wounds if it will serve his glory. Knowing that every act of self-giving love makes the gospel visible and powerful.

We are a cross-shaped people. We are defined by the truth that God came and died for us because he thinks we are worth it. And the cross fashions our lives and mission.

Prayer:

Thankyou Jesus for the cross, where love triumphed over sin. Empower us to take that message to every street and nation. And strengthen us to live truly defined and formed by the cross. Help us embrace the way of joyful sacrifice. May we live unashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.

Personal Reflection:

1.     Where do I feel tempted to shrink back or feel foolish for living out or sharing my faith in Christ?

2.     In what ways is God inviting me to lay down pride and more fully rest in the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus?

3.     What might it look like for me to live a more cross-shaped life this week—marked by sacrifice, obedience, and love for others?