The Fifth Station: Simon Helps to Carry the Cross
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you.
Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
Jesus, as you grow weaker, the soldiers grow impatient. They worry this execution will take too long. They grab a random man from the crowd, Simon, traveling from Cyrene for the Passover festival. Simon does not want to help – he does not want to become involved, but the soldiers force him to help you carry your cross. Simon’s strong hands somewhat lighten the heavy load for you, dear Jesus.
How many times has God placed an opportunity to help someone else in my path and I ignored it? I walked past another student whose books are scattered in the stairwell. I failed to share my lunch with a student who forgot his. I ignore papers or trash I’ve left on the floor, expecting someone on clean-up duty to pick it up. I dash to the bus and don’t bother to hold the door for someone behind me. At home, I ignore the basket of clean laundry as I head upstairs. I make myself scarce when it’s time to carry in groceries or set the dinner table. I ignore the needs of my younger siblings.
Let us pray: Lord, help me notice the needs of those around me. Help me to do more than just stand there and watch. Help me to see the needs of others as opportunities to show my love for you; that in loving others, I will surely find you.
We pray to the Lord.
Lord, hear our prayer.
With Open Doors 
Wonderful heart shown by these young ones, thank you Lord!