The Unexpected Cross

As they led him away they took hold of a certain Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country; and after laying the cross on him, they made him carry it behind Jesus. (Luke 23:26 NABRE)

Our Lord had just been crowned amidst the chaos of political fears. The cacophony of voices added to the intensity of the time. Emotions were high. Our Lord’s heart was downcast, blood riveting down his face. Could He bear another moment of this agony? Out of the corner of His eye came help, in human form at that. Simon of Cyrene came face-to-face with an unexpected cross. He looked upon this weakened body, struggling to stand. Quivering hands reached toward him. In those eyes he saw Love. And as he hoisted the cross beams on his shoulders, it was Love he followed. Christ was before him as he walked the Way of the Cross.

Simon became the only human to literally carry the cross of Jesus. Angels were near, but a man was chosen. That day, Simon became our model, the personification of our Christian walk. Carrying the cross became the mark of an authentic follower of Christ. Jesus previously told potential followers in Mark 8:34, "Whoever wishes to come after Me, must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me."

Watch for Jesus in the crowds, in the chaos of life. Don’t be surprised by the arrival of the cross. It’s accompanied by the glow of Love within His eyes. Receive it. Endure it. Become a model for our time, an authentic follower of Christ, walking behind Jesus along our way. —Karen Pourbabaee

Lord, help me to take up my cross and follow You. Amen.