Upper Loft Meditation - Mark 15

“Simon…was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross.” - Mark 15:21

A man passing through the crowd was suddenly thrust to center stage of the drama of redemption. Can you imagine the shock and shame that Simon of Cyrene must have experienced? Here was a proud Jew entangled in the ugly proceedings of a crucifixion - something reserved for criminals and slaves. They “forced” him into service.

Simon was “passing by”, he was going about his business, and his journey was interrupted by circumstances not of his own choosing. He had another’s burden thrust on him. Some of our failures and disappointments come as a result of our own selfish sowing, unwise decisions, or hasty judgement. At other times we are caught in the consequences of another’s sin. Simon typifies the suffering of good people throughout all time. His experience illustrates the widening circle of influence that individual decisions have on others.

Simon’s experience is an assurance of God’s special concern for those who have to bear burdens they did not choose. “Come to me, you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28)

You may be passing by today - just a person in the crowd. Maybe you have a jeweled cross that hangs around your neck. What does that mean to you? Have you taken up the cross? The way of the cross leads to forgiveness, abundant life, and the defeat of death. Simon of Cyrene, a man passing through the crowd, found this amazing hope in the cross. We all can!