Simon of Cyrene, returning from the hard labor of toiling in the fields, exhausted by the heat, is put upon - forced to help Jesus carry the cross. In the process, Simon recognizes it is the Christ he is serving, and his anger and resentment is turned into heart rending compassion. The sinful, angry man's heart melts like wax in the presence of the God-Man's Heart, aflame with love and mercy. Thus, Simon accepts and embraces the cross in love.
This scene has been played out in the lives of saints and sinners alike. It is often retold in the stories of lay brothers and lay sisters, who after a long, arduous day, have been asked to perform some other task, and out of obedience they do so - albeit, sometimes with murmuring at the onset - only to encounter the wonderful reward of Christ's presence, or some experience of his merciful love.
When we can't participate in the liturgy and prayers of Good Friday, maybe we could at least have the intention of offering our work and difficulties in the spirit of Simon the Cyrenian instead. Without calling attention to ourselves, without politicizing the Holy Day, and without condemning others in their observance - or lack thereof; always mindful of Christ's words, "We are useless servants: we have done no more than our duty." [Luke: 17:10]
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It is mercy I desire
not sacrifice
go and learn the meaning...
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