What does it mean to take up your cross and follow Jesus?

In Mark 10:21, Jesus tells the rich young ruler, 'Go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor; and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come, take up the cross, and follow me.' This command illustrates that true discipleship requires placing Christ above all worldly possessions and desires. It means embracing the challenges that come with following Him, which may include persecution, loss, or societal rejection. Following Jesus is about prioritizing His Lordship over personal gain, demonstrating a willingness to suffer for the sake of the Gospel.