Thursday, March 5

The Fifth Station: Simon Helps Jesus Carry the Cross

They pressed into service a passer-by, Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country … to carry his cross.

-Mark 15:21

Even Jesus needed help, and he wasn’t too proud to accept it.

Human beings are social beings: We are called to live in community. By being together, by helping one another, we become the best versions of ourselves. We build a better planet. We bring about the reign of God.

It’s exciting to be a part of God’s plan, to serve and care for the poor and vulnerable. But let us never forget that we, too, are poor and vulnerable in our own ways-and often those who we serve end up serving us. Let us never be too proud to accept what others give. Let us remind ourselves that there is much to be learned from each person we encounter.

Again, let us call to mind Melvin from Nicaragua. In our efforts to ensure that he and his family become self-sufficient and have the food they need to survive, their community prospers through nutrient-rich soil, diversified crops and healthier neighbors. And we, in turn, benefit: Our whole global family benefits when we lift others up.