Via Crucis :: Immersion

Eighth Station:  Jesus is Helped by Simon the Cyrenian to Carry the Cross (Mark 15: 21)

The Crucifixion

 ²¹ There was a man walking by, coming from work, Simon from Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus. They made him carry Jesus' cross.

It is immensely relieving to know that there are those who still offered aide to Jesus, especially in His darkest hours. I know from my own personal experience what a comfort it is to have the kindness of others, even strangers, at times when I am in the depths of despair. That Christ was left utterly alone by those closest to him, that the kindness of this stranger was a beacon of light, the love of his Father, well...I can only imagine. Did you feel the love? Did you know at that moment that your heavenly Father had not forsaken you? Did you understand that Simon the Cyrenian was the comforting hand that you so needed at that time?


Father God, may I always recognize your presence in my life, in whatever form you send it; be it through the smile of a stranger, the embrace of a loved one, or the kiss of family.