Probably one of the least-known characters in the Passion narrative of Jesus is Simon of Cyrene. Very little is said or known about the man who helped Jesus carry His cross for a brief period of time. We do not know how long he trudged through the streets with Jesus or even whether Simon and Jesus ever spoke to one another.

What was going through Simon’s mind as he helped Jesus carry the cross? What happened when he arrived at Golgotha? Did he stay and watch? Did he disappear back into the crowd, unable to bear the horror any longer? And perhaps more importantly, was Simon himself changed by the experience of helping Jesus carry His cross?

This book is an invitation to consider the ways we might be a Simon to others. Perhaps his example can serve as a model when we walk alongside people who are experiencing suffering and hardship. Although he may have been a reluctant participant, he nevertheless provided significant help to Jesus in carrying His cross. His presence and assistance were truly a blessing.

As a result, we might ask ourselves: How can we help lighten the burdens of those we know who are struggling, as Simon did for Jesus? And what, if anything, causes us to hesitate before stepping into someone else’s pain? How can we find the courage to respond with love and compassion whenever and wherever we are called?