A certain man
from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his
way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross. Mark
15.21
It could be tempting
to see Simon’s introduction to Jesus as accidental. But I think not. I don’t
believe that anyone’s meeting with Jesus is by accident. Jesus himself says, “No
one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.” (John
6.44) This suggests that the Father was pivotal in Simon’s role during Christ’s
passion. Likewise the Father has drawn each one who believes, and will continue
to draw the presently un-committed into life-changing relationship.
I see also that
Simon had influence. He was father to Alexander and Rufus. I wonder what tales
he might have related to his boys about his encounter with God. Most people
have some measure of influence, whether they realize it or not. And simple
story telling can be so effective. Like Simon may have done, we can share our
Jesus experiences with a simple, “Guess what happened to me?”
To be drawn to
Jesus by the Father, and to be able to share our story with others are precious
gifts from God. May we wonderfully appreciate and use both.
Lord God,
I thank You, first, for drawing me to Jesus. I thank you also that I am
not alone in this life. I know people. I am connected to them. Many that I know
also enjoy relationship with You. I praise You for this.
I pray for those who don’t know You. May You use me in drawing them to
Jesus? May I be allowed God-given opportunities and moments to share my Jesus
experiences.
I love You so much and so want to share this. But not all will receive.
I pray that You would lead me to those who are open, and bring the words forth
from my mouth if necessary, or the actions from my being. Use me if and as You
will, in Jesus’ name I ask.
Amen.
My book “God Talk” is available through major Internet booksellers.
A taste of the book's content can be seen in the You Tube clip (Search: Peter Francis - "God Talk").
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