Fifth Station


Simon Helps Jesus Carry His Cross

As they were leading him away they seized on a man, Simon from Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, and made him shoulder the cross and carry it behind Jesus. (Luke 23:26) If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross every day and follow me. (Luke 9:23)

O how we can see the complete helplessness of our precious Jesus. How heavy the cross is, and how much more pain can you endure as the crowd looks on? Simon did not want to carry your cross and I know that sometimes I do not want to do the work I am called to do. Sometimes the load is heavy, the stairs long, and I just can’t make it. I think of my dear Jesus and the load becomes lighter. Just as Simon picks up the end of Christ’s cross, I too feel my load lightening. Jesus sometimes I am such a burden to You and I make Your cross so heavy. I love You Jesus. Forgive me.

Prayer: Father, I offer my life because of the Salvation of Jesus and to help complete this salvation in the work of the poor. So heavy was the cross of Christ. O my suffering Jesus, pour blessings and Your wisdom on me. Father bless me that I may help the poor with the strength of Simon, as he helped Christ carry His cross. Allow me to help Jesus serve the poor and allow me to serve the poor in Jesus. In Jesus’ name Amen.

Our Father Who art in Heaven . . . . . Amen

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