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What does it mean to truly follow Christ? It begins with a willingness to put aside our own desires and ambitions, to “cross out our I” and make room for Him. As Christians, we often reflect on the cross, and with that image in mind, today’s message explores what it means to “cross out our I.”
In Mark 8:34, Jesus proclaims, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” These words are at the heart of Christian discipleship. To follow Christ means to surrender our will, our desires, and our very selves to His divine purpose. Similarly, in John 3:30, John the Baptist states, “He must increase; I must decrease.” This powerful declaration encapsulates the essence of Christian humility—the call to die to self so that Christ may reign in our lives.
The sign of the cross is rich with significance. When we trace the cross upon ourselves, the first two movements with our hand appear to form the letter “I” (symbolizing the vertical beam of the cross). Then the next two movements of our hand appear to cross out the “I” (symbolizing the horizontal beam of the cross). This action serves as a powerful reminder that our Christian journey is not about self-exaltation but about self-denial. Signing ourselves with the cross visually represents the reality that we are called to decrease so that Christ may increase in us. Said differently, we need to cross out our “I.”
Many Christians find meaning in the practice of signing themselves with the cross, while others express their faith through different traditions. Regardless of how we express it, the call to deny ourselves is a universal one.
For many Christians, including those in Catholic, Orthodox, and some Protestant traditions, making the sign of the cross is a prayerful expression of faith. Some Christians may hesitate to make the sign of the cross, perhaps viewing it as a tradition primarily practiced in Catholic and Orthodox churches. However, it’s worth noting that this practice has roots stretching back to the early Church, long before denominational lines were drawn. It can be a powerful reminder of our identity as followers of Christ, a declaration that we belong to Him and that we choose to embrace His call daily.
For many, making the sign of the cross is also a powerful way to remember Christ’s sacrifice and to invoke the presence of the Holy Trinity. It can be a silent prayer, a declaration of faith, and a reminder of our commitment to follow Jesus.
The Christian life calls us to a radical act: to deny ourselves, to put aside our own desires and ambitions in service of a higher purpose. Jesus did not say, “If you feel like it, deny yourself.” Rather, He made it clear that self-denial is the very foundation of discipleship. The cross was not a metaphor in the time of Jesus; it was a real instrument of suffering and death. To “take up our cross” means to embrace the sacrifices that come with putting Christ first, even when it is difficult.
Each time we make the sign of the cross, we are reminded that our lives are not our own. We are called to crucify our pride, our selfish ambitions, and our sins so that Christ can be glorified in us. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” Making the sign of the cross is not just a ritual; it is a personal recommitment to this truth.
In a world that constantly encourages self-promotion and self-gratification, the call to “cross out our I” stands in stark contrast. Choosing to put Christ first is not always easy, and it often requires us to stand against the cultural tide. The sign of the cross is a way to publicly witness to our faith. It is a silent yet profound declaration that we are not our own, that we belong to Christ, and that we willingly choose to follow Him.
Moreover, it serves as a reminder to others. Seeing someone make the sign of the cross can prompt reflection, encourage conversation, and strengthen fellow believers in their faith.
Beyond the physical act of making the sign of the cross, we must also embrace its meaning in our daily lives. Denying ourselves means surrendering our time, our resources, and our plans to God’s will. It means choosing love over anger, humility over pride, and service over selfishness. It means bearing the burdens of others and walking in obedience, even when it is inconvenient.
Every Christian, regardless of denomination, is called to live this way. The external sign of the cross should be matched by an internal transformation. When we choose to “cross out our I,” we make room for Jesus to reign in our hearts.
The sign of the cross is not a Catholic symbol; it is a Christian one. It is a physical expression of Mark 8:34 and John 3:30, a daily commitment to deny ourselves and follow Christ. Regardless of whether we make the sign of the cross or not, all Christians are called to live out its meaning.
If you’ve never made the sign of the cross, I invite you to consider its rich history and symbolism. Perhaps explore its meaning further, pray about it, and discern whether it might be a meaningful addition to your own spiritual practice. In the end, this is a personal decision of faith. Everyone’s decision should be respected.
May we all, each day, choose to cross out our “I” so that Christ may increase in us. Let our lives be a testament to His glory, and may we bear our crosses with faith, hope, and love.
Heavenly Father, some days it seems so difficult, if not impossible, to deny myself rather than giving into worldly pursuits or the desires of the flesh. Help me to cross out my “I.” Strengthen and fortify me so that I can better follow your Son. In Jesus’ name I pray.
AMDG
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Please take a moment to share your thoughts about today’s message below.
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In all these years, I never thought of the sign of the cross that way. I’m keeping this one for a while
Twice a day…that’s how I like to read your 4th Day Letters, Brian.
Beautiful thought to start my day! Thank you for the inspiration.
Written above
Brian, a while back you wrote a short prayer/petition that you offered to us to say daily.it is about conforming our life to Christ. I just wanted you to know that I wrote it down and pray it daily. It covers so many things that I need to pray for. Thank you for sharing it with us.