-38. Jesus promises his followers a cross.  That doesn't sound like a blessing.  But oh, how our crosses drive us to Christ as we deny our own power!  So take up your cross. Parts: A. By denying yourself. B. So that you’re driven to Christ’s cross.  Preached on March 4, 2012, for the Second Sunday in Lent, at St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church (WELS), Hancock, MN. Print copy at http://hancocklutheran.org/sermons/Take-Up-Your-Cross_-Mark8_31-38.html

My Hope Waits for You, O My God -- Psalm 25:1-5

St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church is a Bible-based church, centered on the Good News of Jesus, our divine Savior from sin. These weekly messages from God's Word seek to build us up in Christ, as the Holy Spirit strengthens our faith in God's promises and binds us together in Christian love. Through his Word and Sacraments we are caught by Jesus. St. John's is located in Hancock, Minnesota and is a member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). Scripture quotations often taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION(R). NIV(R). Copyright (C) 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society.