A pendant in the shape of a cross is one of the most popular forms of jewelry. Women and men alike often wear one hanging from a gold or silver chain around their necks. Children often receive one when they make their first Communion. For some people, putting

on the cross each day is an intensely religious experience. For others, the gold or silver emblem that they wear possesses nothing more than some sentimental value. For some, it serves only to make a fashion statement. Diamonds are popular, but it is probably fair to say that a cross is far more prevalent.

Writing in the second half of the first century, it is unlikely that the Gospel writers would foresee the boon that Christianity gave to modern-day goldsmiths. For Luke, taking up the cross daily did not mean fastening a piece of jewelry around his neck. He lived in a time when it was clear that being a Christian meant living a very different way of life. It meant

getting up before dawn on the first day of the week to hasten to the early morning gathering for the breaking of the bread. Sunday was a day of work like any other. It meant contributing to the welfare of others instead of looking out only for oneself. And it meant

being prepared to face persecution because one's faith was not consistent with the commonly held opinions of the day.

The Christian values of Sunday prayer, charity toward others, and a strong faith in God have not changed. They are still things that the followers of Jesus cling to as important aspects of the faith. As

any disciple would admit, taking up the cross is not about wearing a piece of metal dangling from a chain. Amulets like that can be a reminder of the interior life one hopes to espouse, but they do not guarantee salvation. Only losing our life in Christ will lead to that end.

"Who do the crowds say that I am?"

They said in reply, "John the Baptist;

others, Elijah; still others, 'One of the

ancient prophets has arisen.'" Then he

said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter

said in reply, "The Christ of God." - Luke 9:18b-20