Why did God ordain that Simon would be called to help Jesus carry his cross?
Logical answer, Jesus was too weak to carry it himself because of all he had endured the previous night.
On a deeper level, I believe God ordained this and included it in each of the four gospels to teach us. I believe we are each called to carry the cross with Jesus as well as carry our own cross.
How do we do this? Just by accepting the suffering and pain that comes into our lives? Or is there more to it than this passive response to Christ's command?
I believe we need to intentionally share the burden of Christ's cross by voluntarily sharing in the suffering of those around us. We can't bear everyone's pain, but, just as Simon was called to uniquely share the suffering of Jesus, I believe God calls each of us to uniquely and deliberately share in the pain of specific individuals or groups suffering in our midst.
Will I do this willingly, or will I resist? We so easily say, "God, break my heart for what breaks yours." How do we respond when he shows us a particular misery that breaks his heart? Will I let Him break my heart, or will I protect it from pain? Will I surrender to being broken by bearing my brother's burden and in doing so fulfill the law of Christ?
