One of Jesus’ most famous statements—and also one of his most challenging—is about taking up your cross. Here it is:

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it” (Mark 8:34-35).

But what does it mean to lose your life? I know what it’s like to lose my keys, but my life?

The church father Augustine has a helpful word about this point. Losing your life means to “kill that in oneself which is unduly attached to the earthly, which makes one take inordinate pleasure in this present life to the neglect of the life to come.”*

It’s when we obsess about our looks, but neglect our character.

It’s when we obsess about money, but neglect the needs of others.

It’s when we obsess about our hobbies, but neglect the Bible and prayer.

It’s when we obsess about what other people think, but neglect what God thinks. 

I’ve been a Christian for quite a long time. I’ve been taking it very seriously for a long time too—and what Jesus and Augustine say can still be a challenge for me as well. The things of this life are alluring and shiny and so very immediate.

But none of them last. With Christ, however, there is so much more. 

Let’s enjoy our time on earth, but not get consumed by it. In the footsteps of Jesus, let’s stand firm on the word of God, love richly, be a part of his kingdom, and never lose sight of what (and who) matters most.

Notes:

-*Augustine, Letter 243, to Laetus.

-Bible quotes are from the ESV.