Stations of the Cross (8)

Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus to carry his cross (Luke 23:26)

Luke 23:26 (NIV84)

26 As they led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus.

Simon carried the cross of Christ,

he was forced to, by the soldiers;

only later did he recognise his privilege

in shouldering the burden of the One

who made the worlds.

He was compelled to carry the cross

part of the way for Jesus,

and felt the gratitude of this Man above all men;

and amid the pity Simon felt for Him,

he felt a burning compassion flowing back to him from Jesus,

 a burning, life-changing love.

Simon carried the cross of Christ.

As Simon took the weight of the cross from Jesus,

You have taught us that we must bear one another's

burdens, and so fulfil the law of Love.

May we carry Your cross.

May we carry Your cross.

Simon was one just passing by,

but suddenly he was compelled to change direction,

and, with all his strength given

to the carrying of the cross,

pressed through the crowds

to the place of the Skull.

Golgotha, Calvary,

Sweet Jesus, like Simon,

May we carry Your cross.

May we carry Your cross.

.