Tag: god

On the first Good Friday, it felt anything but good to the first disciples of our Lord.

Please join me in pondering the texts below, as the wonder and essence of this day in history continues to wow us.

“And as they led Him away, they laid hold on one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might carry it after Jesus. And a great multitude of people followed Him…” Luke 23:26–27

One of my mentors, Uncle Tim Olonade, once said, “…what we may call a coincidence is when God in His glory performs a wonder within our space and chooses to remain anonymous.”

When Simons appear, we may see mere humans, a passerby, a commoner… a foreigner, but angels watch in awe. They see mystery.

Kindly pause for some minutes and remember the helpers along your narrow path to destiny, those who, like Simon, were singled out of the multitude in your chaotic and desperate moments and compelled by heaven’s mysterious arrangement to carry your cross for a season.

Simons, who differed from us in many ways, yet embraced us and reassured us when the voices around us were hostile.

Simons, who gave us favor we neither solicited nor deserved and extended grace when condemnation and scorn seemed justified.

Simons, who unashamedly risked much to ensure we made it to “that Hill” together.

Simons, who rejoiced in our victories and shared in our agonies.

Simons, who knows the horror of being or feeling forgotten, stayed present, assuaging our fears through consistent, intentional communication.

Simons, whose timely counsel and wisdom ordered our steps and stops, when our knees buckled under unbearable pressure.

Simons, whose resources both in men and means, were lavished on us to see the vision and mission accomplished.

Simons, whose willingness to labor beside us in the trenches strengthened our resolve to dare more boldly.

Simons, who carried more than wood, they carried our sundry weights, shame, silence, fear, confusion, our message, the mystery, and the misery.

Simons, who kept our secrets without threats, disrespect, gossip, or ridicule.

Simons, who did not plan to be part of our story, yet became essential to it.

Simons, who gave up family time, fun, food… just to ensure we had warmth, a drink, or a much-needed break.

Simons, who stepped in when strength failed, became a living proof that God never leaves a man alone under his cross.

Simons, who served quietly, choosing anonymity when everything in them qualified for recognition; they preferred the hidden honor of heaven over the applause of men.

Today, let’s pause and remember such people in our journey and thank God for them. Let us celebrate these great “Cyrenians” whom God has masterfully and mercifully sent our way.

Let’s reflect deeply on the fact that an ordinary African, a Libyan from Cyrene, played a great role in ensuring the redemption story was perfected in the Christ.

Let’s also consider that sometimes, we are not the Jesus in the story… we are the Simon… called unexpectedly into another man’s burden. Interrupted in our own journey, so that another might finish theirs in glory.

Can heaven interrupt you for another’s benefit? Will you sense the Lord’s hand or hear His voice, calling or drawing you to take responsibility and exercise compassion? Or will you grumble and ignore the divine invitation?

Here’s a toast to the true yokefellows, who appeared suddenly in our journey. Your presence, compassion, promises, prayers, and presents have made our mission beautiful, the bruises bearable, and thus, continue to reveal Abba Father’s scandalous love and matchless grace in our lives… and yours.

If a cup of cold water given in Christ’s name will not go unrewarded, then every step, every drop of sweat, every sigh you’ve offered with “our cross” on your back and in your heart, will never be forgotten.

It is Good Friday today, and we can’t help but wonder how Simon the Cyrenian will respond on Sunday, to the greatest news in history—He is Risen!!

Hallelujah!!