A Thought From Meredith

When we were on the flight to the Philippines I had this thought.  Jesus took His passion steps easiest to hardest (of course none of His suffering was easy, but some things I think were harder).  First, Jesus thought about His suffering and sweated blood because He knew how hard it would be.  Then He was scourged very badly and laughed at.  Next, He was stabbed with a sharp crown of thorns and people mocked Him.  Jesus took His cross and also fell three times before reaching Calvary.  When Jesus got there He was stripped of His clothes and nailed to His cross.  Before Jesus died He forgave those who persecuted Him.  I think we should follow these steps.  1. First think about what God is calling us to, then accept it.  2. Then, scourge all the bad habits and a few things you could do without.  3. Next, put aside all bad thoughts and judgeful thoughts (it is hard for me not to judge also!).  4. Bear your cross cheerfully each day!.  5. Strip yourself of the rest of the bad habits and everything that is keeping you from being close to God.  The final step (6.) is to crucify yourself with Jesus, offer yourself to God, and forgive those who persecute you. 
P.S. You don't have to do these things all at once.  Do each step until it's like a habit to you.
P.P.S. I really like this reading: Romans 13:8-14.  Look it up!