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Wednesday August 13 - Simon carries the cross
A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by... and they forced him to carry the cross. Mark 15:21
Simon was an ordinary man going about his own business when he was forced to bear the weight of another’s suffering. He was compelled to carry Jesus’ cross, an unexpected moment that forever changed his life. He bore the weight of the cross physically, but spiritually it reminds us of Jesus’ call to ‘take up our own crosses’ and follow him (Matthew 16:24).
Life can unexpectedly present us with the responsibility of helping others, even when inconvenient or burdensome. Carrying the cross is not easy; it requires sacrifice and surrender. But in doing so, we demonstrate compassion and share in Christ’s suffering and his mission to bring redemption to the world.
Each of us faces unique challenges and burdens, such as relationship difficulties, loss, financial hardship, illness or more. This cross can feel heavy and overwhelming, but we must learn to see God in those challenges, and how he wants to glorify himself.
What cross is God asking you to carry today? In what ways is God asking you to help others? Ask for his strength to bear it faithfully, knowing that it is through the cross that we find life.
Lord, help us to take up our cross daily and follow you with courage and faith. Please strengthen us in the journey. Amen.
Thursday August 14 - The crucifixion
And they crucified him. Dividing up his clothes, they cast lots to see what each would get. Mark 15:24
The soldiers’ actions show the depths of human sinfulness. They treated Jesus with utter disrespect and profited from his suffering. Despite this, Jesus demonstrated empathy and compassion. He knew they were fulfilling the prophecy that stated, ‘They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment’ (Psalm 22:18).
The crucifixion is the ultimate expression of God’s love for us. Jesus bore the penalty for our sins, humbling himself to the point of death on the cross. Even as soldiers gambled for his clothing, he prayed, “Father, forgive them.”
Jesus’ willingness to endure the suffering of crucifixion despite being innocent teaches us the ultimate act of humility and self-sacrifice. He demonstrated that we must learn to put the needs of others before our own.
Take time today to reflect on the immense love displayed on the cross. It was our sin that put Jesus there, but it was also his love that kept him there. Let the cross remind you of God’s grace and the call to extend that grace to others.
Jesus, thank you for the cross. May we never take for granted the sacrifice you made to save us. Amen.
PRAYER FOR TODAY
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PRAYER FOR TODAY