Be like Simon

Do your children know the story of Simon the Cyrenian? The account of Jesus' torture and crucifixion includes this sentence: "As they led him away they took hold of a certain Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country; and after laying the cross on him, they made him carry it behind Jesus" (Luke 23: 26).

Although there's not a lot about him in the gospel, Simon plays a key role. You can picture a simple, strong man, just arrived in Jerusalem, caught up in the middle of this horrible display of cruelty and injustice. Standing on the sidelines, he is nonetheless dragged into the center of the controversy and made to carry Jesus' heavy cross.

Here's an idea for what you and your family can do for Lent. At least once a week, be a Simon the Cyrenian. As Simon helped carry Jesus' cross, offer to help a neighbor, family member, classmate, or coworker with a tough chore. The help can be physical, emotional, or spiritual. Realize as you're helping today that you're also helping Jesus.