Matthew 27:32 – As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon and they forced him to carry the cross.
Matthew 11:28-30 – Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

He took His cross
as best he could
(cross-bearing was
so new to him)
How could He tell the torturous load
of rough hewn wood
on that rutted road
where He was led,
would saw His shoulder
till it bled;
and then…
He fell.

Of all the curious,
crowding round,
who
stepping out, stooped down
to do
what Simon did long years ago?
-But He, who
staggering beneath our cross,
fell, too.

by Ruth Bell Graham

Have you ever had a problem you felt you couldn't share? Or that you were on your own? Jesus had a time like that too. Jesus had almost everyone against him, and he was on trial for crimes that he didn't commit. He was on his way to die, and he was forced to carry a heavy load of wood; his cross.

For some, this next idea might seem a little sacrilegious. But for a man who has been severely beaten, Jesus did very well. He was able to carry his cross part of the way. He stumbled and fell. Jesus wasn't able to carry his own cross the whole way. And so, God doesn't expect us to carry our cross all by ourselves. In fact, he even makes an offer to help us. You see, God knows our limitations. He was one of us; fully human but all God as well. And so, he doesn't expect us to do anything that he couldn't.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that you are there when we need you. Thank you that you help us when we need it. Help us to help you carry the crosses of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Amen.

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