Simon of Cyrene: The Courageous Man Who Carried Jesus’ Cross

 “As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross.”

Matthew 27:32

Dear Simon of Cyrene,

I recently read in the gospel of Matthew about an incredible opportunity you had. I know at the time, it was a terribly distressing situation for you. But looking back from my perspective, I see it as a life-changing opportunity. You served the Creator of heaven and earth in a very tangible way by carrying His cross when He was too physically weak to carry it Himself. Though you didn’t volunteer, your participation became part of God’s eternal story.

As I picture that day, I wonder what you were doing in the vicinity of Jerusalem. Since you came from Cyrene, a coastal city in Libya, you must have been living in the area or traveled a long way to get there. Perhaps you were there for the Passover or maybe you had other business to attend to.

An Unexpected Cross Bearer in Jerusalem

Either way, I know that when you woke up that morning and joined the crowds going to and from the city, you never expected to be a participant in a crucifixion. And you certainly did not expect Roman soldiers to single you out to do their dirty work. Maybe they chose you because you were strong and stood out in the crowd, or perhaps because of your appearance and nationality. 

Whatever the reason, the soldiers seized you and laid the heavy wooden board across your back. It must have been terrifying since they likely didn’t give an explanation. Maybe you even wondered if you were going to be crucified with the other prisoners. I imagine you soon realized that you were carrying the cross for someone else. Did you know that the broken, bleeding man stumbling ahead of you was the Son of God?

The Impact on Simon of Cyrene’s Family

The gospel of Mark gives further information about you and your family. Were your sons, Rufus and Alexander, with you, or did you travel alone? If they were with you, they must have been confused and traumatized by the whole scenario. If not, I am sure you related the story when you returned home. It seems the experience impacted the whole family since it is believed that it is Rufus – along with your wife – who are mentioned in Romans 16:13. There Rufus is called “a choice man in the Lord.” 

I imagine you spent years reflecting on what happened after your task was finished. Over time, perhaps you came to understand the eternal blessings that came from Jesus’ suffering. He didn’t need you to carry His cross. At any moment, He could have called a thousand angels to rescue Him. He could have left us all to die in our sins, and the cross you bore could have been your own. But, instead, Jesus willingly endured it to offer salvation to you, your family, and all who believe.

What the Cross Bearer Teaches Us About Discipleship 

Your role that day, though unexpected and painful, provides an enduring example for me. Before His death, Jesus said that anyone who wanted to follow Him must deny themselves and take up their cross (Matthew 16:24). Without realizing it, you lived out that command. Your experience shows me that carrying the cross is rarely glamorous or convenient, but it is the path of true discipleship.

So, Simon of Cyrene, thank you for your service to our Lord, and for the example you set. I am sure, now, from your perspective, you are grateful for your difficult experiences – especially if they led you to the truth. 

I trust I will see you in heaven someday, along with the rest of your family. There we can discuss more about the hardships and joys of following Jesus. Together we can praise God that He suffered and died to give us His glorious gift of salvation.

Love,

Mama (another cross bearer)

Like Simon of Cyrene, we are each called to be a cross bearer. Will you take up your cross and follow Jesus daily? If you’d like to go deeper, listen to this episode on discipleship from the podcast Tea with Mama.