Throwback by Doug Graham
Zero to Hero – Simon The Cross Carrier
In reflecting on my message last Sunday, I felt a bit more ramped up than usual in conveying the significance of Simon’s influence on his family (Mark 15). Why? Because I know of no other more important thing in the world for a father (or mother) than how we influence our family (especially our kids!).
Think of it! Here’s a guy who’s traveled in from the countryside, he’s probably tired, thirsty, and just looking for a place to relax before going about his business in the busy city of Jerusalem. Then, out of nowhere, some Roman soldier grabs him by the collar and drags him to where Jesus is collapsed beneath His cross. “Carry this man’s cross!” the soldier screams in Simon’s face. Simon’s life was forever changed that day … and so was his wife’s, and his boys as well, Alexander & Rufus.
Yes, my name is Doug … but I am more intimately known as “honey” (by my wife) and “dad” (by my kids). More than any other achievement in the world, I want to succeed at home. We don’t hear any more of Simon after Mark 15, but we do hear about his wife and his sons later (see Acts 19:33 & Romans 16:13). Perhaps the most important thing about being a dad or mom is realizing that there are “moments in time” when not only OUR life is transformed, but like a chain of falling dominoes, everyone in our home is transformed.
Here’s a prayer I say quite frequently: “Jesus, help me to live to my fullest potential for You; and in so doing, inspire my wife and kids so that their lives make an even greater impact in the world.”
Pastor Doug