V

REFLECTION

Strong and likely Simon stood,

chance watcher of that strange procession

on its way to Calvary.

Proud and from the countryside,

young and insecure.

"Carry the cross," they said;

Words empowered by whips, lances and numbers.

And, he did.

He shouldered the Cross.

And followed behind Jesus.

Jesus, our brother,

We have to admire Simon.

He took up your cross and followed you.

He had so little doubt, so little hesitation.

We see you suffering in all around us,

in the poor, in the powerless,

in the misunderstood.

We are so hesitant to come to your aid.

We find so many excuses.

We remain aloof.

Grant us the wisdom and the courage

to help the least of your brothers and sisters

and so help you.

Simon stopped in hesitation,

Not foreseeing his proud station,

Called to bear the Cross of Christ.