“As the soldiers 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.” (Luke 23:26)

     Simon from Cyrene was not just someone who happened to “pass by” when Jesus was carrying the cross.  He was devoted to the Lord.  It might have been convenient for the soldiers to grab him and force him to carry the cross, but I am sure that he did not regret doing this.  Simon’s influence did not stop there; at least one of his sons were involved in the early Christian church.

     “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23) Can we help those who are suffering in some way by taking up the cross for them, and for Jesus?  There’s lots of opportunities.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we see a world that is suffering.  As your disciples, lead us to those who are in need.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.