The Way of the Cross, The Way of Salvation

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: August 27, 2024

Scripture: "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God." — 1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts:

The cross, in its essence, is a symbol of pain, suffering, and death. Yet, for Christians, it is the gateway to life, hope, and salvation. The way of the cross is not an easy path; it is marked by sacrifice, humility, and the ultimate act of love. Jesus' journey to the cross was not merely a physical path to Golgotha, but a spiritual journey of obedience, surrender, and redemption. He endured the cross, despising its shame, for the joy set before Him—our salvation and reconciliation with God.

The cross represents the heart of the Gospel. Without the cross, there is no salvation, no forgiveness of sins, and no hope for eternal life. It is through Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross that we are offered the gift of salvation. The way of the cross requires us to acknowledge our sinfulness, accept God's grace, and follow Jesus in a life of discipleship, taking up our own crosses daily.

Consider the life of the Apostle Paul. Before his conversion, Paul (then Saul) was a zealous persecutor of Christians. However, after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus, his life was radically transformed. Paul embraced the way of the cross, dedicating his life to preaching the Gospel and enduring immense suffering for the sake of Christ. He was beaten, imprisoned, shipwrecked, and ultimately martyred for his faith, yet he considered it all worth it for the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ.

Practical Reflection

• Following the way of the cross means embracing a lifestyle that reflects the sacrificial love of Christ. It calls us to deny ourselves, to put others' needs above our own, and to live in a manner that is countercultural. In a world that often glorifies self-fulfillment, power, and wealth, the way of the cross asks us to humble ourselves, serve others, and value eternal treasures over temporal gains.

• The way of the cross is not just a one-time decision but a daily commitment. It involves making choices that honour God, even when they are difficult or unpopular. It may require us to give up certain comforts, face persecution, or endure hardships for the sake of the Gospel. However, we can take comfort in knowing that we do not walk this path alone—Jesus walks with us, and He has already secured the victory.

Closing Thought

Let us embrace the way of the cross, knowing that through it, we find the true way to life. May we, like Paul, be willing to endure whatever comes our way for the sake of Christ, always keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the cross and for the gift of salvation that it brings. Help us to walk in the way of the cross daily, denying ourselves, taking up our crosses, and following Jesus. Strengthen us when the path is difficult, and remind us of the eternal glory that awaits us. May our lives reflect the love, humility, and sacrifice of Christ, and may we be faithful witnesses to the power of the cross. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.