daily word - carry your cross

One of the things I promised was a cross to carry. I left the door open for you to decide whether to pick it up or not, but doing so was presented as a condition of being a disciple. Are you aware that you are carrying a cross? Have you ever cried out that yours is too much for you to bear? I can sympathize with this statement. Another man was pressed into service to carry mine when I could not. I know what you are capable of; do you? Have you ever complained that your load is too great and found that you could bear it after all? I do not willingly afflict my children. Is it easier to endure if you know the reason behind it? Perhaps instead of asking me to remove it you could ask me what it is for.