Lord Jesus, who leads us toward a heavenly home, give us strength to give up those things that are detrimental to our lives and to your kingdom, that we would have the strength remaining to carry our crosses as you did and follow the path to the love of Father and Holy Spirit, through you who ascended into their presence. Amen. ‘Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”‘ – Matthew 16:24