Lent 2021: Will You Be Forced? by Wade Dugger
- Evan Taylor
- Apr 1, 2021
- 2 min read
“Along the way, they came across a man name Simon, who was from Cyrene, and the soldiers forced him to carry Jesus’ cross."
- Matthew 27:32
April 1, 2021
Will You Be Forced?
In Matthew 27:32, Simon from Cyrene (modern day Libya/ Northern Africa) was “compelled” or forced to help Jesus carry His cross to His crucifixion.
Envision you in this scene, standing amongst a crowd on the streets of Jerusalem, watching the march to death of an individual you do not know. Suddenly, you are approached by the “5-O” (the Romans at that time) and told you are going to help this man carry his cross. What would you have done? We face situations every day that require our forced involvement---obeying the laws of God and man, helping others in time of need and distress, being a good Christian.
This brother from Northern Africa was compelled to help Jesus as He was too weak to carry his cross on this journey to his death. Simon’s sons, Alexander and Rufus, witnessed this experience. Study shows that they became Christians of the early church.
What compels you to take action to help your fellow man?
Do you have to be compelled as Simon was or is it part of your Christian DNA?
As we reflect on this “Long Day” as the early church called Good Friday, let us think about what moves us to action. Prayerfully, it is the blood of Jesus the Christ who died for us on this day.
Prayer: Almighty God, place the will to help on our hearts and make us willing servants.
Steward Wade Dugger
Senior Board of Stewards
Lent 2021
The members and friends of Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church
have written their devotions and reflections on the impact of the season of Lent
in their lives. Each testimony in the booklet is a personal reflection of their experiences.
We welcome you on this journey with us as we discuss our sacrifices and hope
that some aspect of the scripture, reflections, or prayers will inspire you as you
experience the season.
Read along with us each day or download the book to read along with us offline. May God bless and keep you throughout this season of reflection.
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