During his earthly ministry Jesus told his followers: ‘If anyone wants to come with me, he must forget self, take up his cross every day, and follow me.’
Luke 9:23 Good News Translation
On the way to the place of crucifixion ‘they met a man named Simon, who was coming into the city from the country, and the soldiers forced him to carry Jesus’ Cross.’
Luke 15: 21 Good News Translation
Reflection: Jesus is helped by Simon
Simon of Cyrene did not offer willingly to help carry the Cross of Jesus. The task was forced upon him.
Jesus never forces anyone to follow him.
He calls us to be his disciples, asks us to bear the burdens of others as if it is him who we are serving.
Lord, by sharing its weight, Simon served you on the
day you were most in need of loving kindness.
May we seek ways to carry your Cross for you,
for you are in our midst in the homeless and the poor;
in the sick and starving and the refugees crying for help.
You told your disciples the way would not be easy.
Lead us to bear the burden of others
as if we were serving you
We adore you O Christ and we bless you
Because by your holy Cross you have redeemed the world