Probably one of the least known characters in the passion narrative of Jesus is Simon of Cyrene. Very little is said or known about this man who briefly helped Jesus carry his cross. It isn’t known how long he trudged through the streets with Jesus or even if Simon and Jesus ever spoke to each other. What was going through Simon’s mind as he helped Jesus? What happened when he arrived at Golgotha? Did he stay or disappear back into the crowd, not wanting to look upon the horror? More importantly, was Simon himself changed by helping Jesus carry his cross? This book is an invitation to look at the ways someone might be a Simon to others, modeling how to walk with people through suffering and hardship. Although perhaps a reluctant participant, he was nevertheless a help to Jesus. His presence was truly a blessing. And so, readers might ask themselves how they can help lighten the load of people they know who are struggling, like Simon did for Jesus. And what, if anything, might cause the hesitation to step into someone’s pain with them? This book examines how to find the courage to respond with love and compassion.
