Your call is clear, cold centuries across; You bid me…
““Your call is clear, cold centuries across; You bid me follow you, and take my cross, And daily lose myself, myself deny, And stern against myself shout ‘Crucify’. My stubborn nature rises to rebel Against your call. Proud choruses of hell Unite to magnify my restless hate Of servitude, lest I capitulate. The world, to see my cross, would pause and jeer. I have no choice, but still to persevere To save myself – and follow you from far, More slow than Magi-for I have no star. And yet you call me still. Your cross Eclipses mine, transforms the bitter loss I thought that I would suffer if I came To you- into immeasurable gain. I kneel before you, Jesus, crucified, My cross is shouldered and my self denied; I’ll follow daily, closely, not refuse For love of you and man myself to lose.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker wrestles with personal resistance to following Christ, acknowledging suffering but ultimately embracing sacrifice for love.
In simple terms: Struggle with faith leads to deeper commitment.
Key Takeaway
Accept suffering as part of love.
Themes
faith
sacrifice
inner conflict
redemption
Mood
reflective
devotional
Type
spiritual
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Personal prayer
- church teaching
- mission work
- ethical decisions
Key Concepts
Christian theology
spiritual struggle
obedience
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “cross” symbolize for you?
- How can suffering be transformed into purpose?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor of the cross may not resonate with all audiences.