An African Carried the Cross 

As we follow the steps of Christ on his way to Golgotha, we meet Simon of Cyrene, who reminds us that no-one is an extra in this drama of life. As we walk with Jesus, we are changed for ever. 

From an Africa Study Bible touch point:

Simon was most likely an African Jew who lived in the Greek colony of Cyrene, located in northern Libya. He had come to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. Then a Roman soldier forced him to carry the cross for Jesus. Jesus was very weak and undoubtedly grateful to have His burden relieved. 

It is very likely Simon’s encounter with Jesus changed his life for ever. The Gospel of Mark speaks of Simon of Cyrene as the father of Alexander and Rufus (Mark 15:21), two Christians who may have lived in Rome and were evidently well known by readers of that Gospel. Rufus is also mentioned in Romans 16:13. Because of this, it would seem that Simon became a follower of Jesus as did members of his family. He witnessed the terrible suffering of Jesus first hand, and that may be what drew Simon to Christ. 

Many in Africa have experienced horrendous suffering themselves. Many know friends and family who have also suffered. When we suffer unjustly at the hands of cruel people, we can trust God to use such circumstances to draw people to himself, as he did with Simon. We can also rejoice that when God’s chosen people are in dire need of help and protection, God makes Africans available to help. 

Today: 

Simon’s inconvenient “chance” encounter changed his destiny, his family, and Africa’s involvement in the cross. As you go about your day, keep your eyes open for inconvenient “chance” encounters. Rather than becoming irritated with a disruption of your plans, see these as potential opportunities to bless others, yourself, your family, and even your nation.