Healing Splinters from the Cross

Simon of Cyrene in Mark 15…forced to carry the cross for Jesus who was far too weak from brutal beatings and a ghastly flogging. With the blood of Jesus prevalent on the wood of the cross, as Simon arched his back and placed his shoulder into position to hoist up this heavy timber, did he even know the significance of what he was about to do? This Simon who was likely in from the country on a simple errand, intersected with the most pivotal event in history as he was drafted to play a role.

Forced into this task, and already tired from his journey from the country, he worked his way along the procession, guided by soldiers on either side and a weary Savior just a few steps away. The repeated stinging of splinters etching his skin from the coarse wood were insignificant precursors to the true purpose of this horrific instrument of death. As the sweat from this heavy load mixed with the blood of the Savior, did Simon feel his aches and pains disappear? Did he have ailments or health struggles that were simply gone now?

…present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.

Romans 12:1

By the time Simon delivered the cross to the scene of the crucifixion, I wonder if he didn’t have a greater perspective of what was taking place and the honor of this hardship that had been involuntarily put upon him. Perhaps at some point in the journey up Golgotha, it became less of a drudgery and more an event of worship of this Man Jesus he had heard so much about.

Often God puts us into a position we’re not wanting. We feel the splinters. But, it’s for Him. What menial task do we have that has interrupted our lives and changed our schedule and goals? Remember that God is with us on our journey. We take every step for Him and because of Him. Our thwarted circumstance could be the very task the Father has ordained for us. May it become an act of worship and not a drudgery as you discover Who you’re doing it for.

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).