Today’s Thought “Small Beginnings” G. Ward

 

“A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross.” Mark 15:21

 

Simon of Cyrene is depicted as a spiritual hero. While walking the streets of Jerusalem, he was chosen by a bunch of antagonizing Romans to help an inconspicuous Savior to the world carry a cross soon to become His method for dying. Why Simon? I wasn’t there, so I don’t know! Moreover, every historian is speculative. Perhaps he looked strong enough? Maybe he was the only man around? Whatever the reason, great obscurity via the bible passages indicating his help, assist us in knowing that today’s manufactured mishaps can become tomorrow’s salvation for others.

The Apostle Paul regarded Rufus’ Mother (or Simon’s wife) as his very own (cf. Ro.16:13). We don’t know if Simon of Cyrene was a devout Jew in Jerusalem for the Passover, or just visiting; but surely the Apostle’s great interactivity with her involved some early proselytizing to enable her to be equated as “Mother” (cf. 2 Co. 6:14)?

From this storyline I’ve learned how to take life’s frustrations and assume that Holy God may utilize these for His glory (cf.Ro. 8:28, Jas.1:2-7). Furthermore, our lives really don’t belong to us, we’re instruments of His. When we ask to be used of Him, it may not be as palatable, but necessary.

Finally, don’t pursue frustrations and anticipate abuse because of your desire towards heroism. Just understand that set-backs are as ordinary as seeing the sun rise each day and our Gracious, Sufficient, God, won’t ever leave us to fend for ourselves (Mt.28:20, Heb.13:5)! Happy Wednesday!