A Lenten Devotion for Friday, March 21
- ontrakk
- Mar 21
- 1 min read
Mark 15:21
A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross.
It would be so fascinating to know the story of Simon before and after carrying the cross. It was not something he offered to do, and it is not likely he had ever imagined such a thing. He didn’t seem to offer his services, but was commanded to do so. Yet he was the first to pick up Jesus’ cross and follow Him. It is fascinating to me to imagine how his life may have changed from that day forward. Did he get a sense along the way of what he was really doing? Was he changed that day? We can never know, but we do know the transformative power of Jesus.
Holy Lord, May I be aware and cherish all of the positive changes you have made in my life. I do occasionally have a cross to bear, and knowing I am following you gives me strength and hope. I am truly thankful. Amen
Becky, transforming
Mark 15:21🕘
I have read and reread this small piece of a big story. I see the different ways Bible versions use Simon. Some say he was compelled by the guards. Others say forced and one said seized. No matter which you read, it seems he did not willingly or compassionately carry the cross for Jesus. Bible historians have made much of this act. Me? I'd like to know more about this man. Was he a Jew there for the Passover or was he just there for the spectacle? Did his witness change his life in any way? There is so much we will never know--like so many of the Bible's stories.
Prayer: Gracious God, I'd like to think tha…
Friday, March 21st, 2025 (15th day of lent)
Mark 15:21
And they compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross.
Jesus was so weakened by his scourging that he could no longer carry the cross himself, so the Roman soldiers forced Simon to help. The verse also mentions that Simon was the father of Alexander and Rufus.( I am not sure why) Simon was chosen so suddenly and unexpectedly for this heavy task. It just says he was coming in from the field, was coming in from the country. He was a foreigner, an African, how did he know he would serve Jesus in his fina…
Mark 15:21
There are so many unanswered questions about Simon of Cyrene. It seems likely he was in Jerusalem for the Passover. How old were his sons, Alexander and Rufus? Why did Mark (alone among the gospel writers) mention them by name? Did Simon and his sons become Christians? Like so many figures in the Bible who appear but once, Simon of Cyrene reminds us that anyone at any moment can be thrust directly into God’s plan, not just for them individually, but God’s redemptive plan for the new heaven and new earth. We must be alert and respond to the Holy Spirit’s call to act when we are pressed into His service.
Prayer - Lord, give me ears to…
Simon… The unexpected aid to Jesus. As put out as he was, did he ever later realize how the impact of his actions and playing out of these events would have on humanity? How many times have we found ourselves in a situation where a simple act of kindness pulls us into the conundrum of someone else’s life. I think a lesson here is to help full speed ahead, no matter where it may lead us.
Heavenly Father, please guide me to help others without expectation or limit. Help me to follow Christ and feel the weight of His cross as a reminder of His love and sacrifice for me. Amen.