Re: Verse reading–Matthew 27:32-54 (day two)
As they were coming out, they found a man of Cyrene named Simon, whom they pressed into service to bear His cross. vs. 32
Simon of Cyrene – who was he? What was he doing there? Was he in town for the Passover, perhaps there to take part in a sacrifice or ritual? Was he a party to angry mob that had feverishly demanded the release of a convicted killer instead of the innocent Jesus? It is as if it was a passing thought to put this account in the passion narrative. This man named Simon from the town of Cyrene was forced to carry the cross of the Christ.
Like all of us Simon had an encounter with Jesus. He may not have been a part of anything that led up to his role, but that did not mean he didn’t need to meet the Savior. Jesus didn’t die to just save those who angrily forced this crucifixion. He didn’t endure the torture for so the scattered disciples could be absolved. Jesus followed this path so people like Simon could meet him face to face. We will all be called to some accountability for what we did with this Jesus. Will you carry his cross?
