Simon carrying the cross is a picture of the work of the Church across all generations. The Church follows Jesus in bearing the cross. Jesus suffers not to exclude your suffering, but so you can endure it. He frees you from sin, but not from sorrow.

Expect to suffer, but find comfort in knowing that you're carrying not your cross, but Christ's. When you're mocked for your faith, remember it's not your cross—it's Christ's. How wonderful it is to carry our Lord's cross! You're following in his footsteps, and the mark of his blood is on that burden. It's his cross, and he leads you like a shepherd. Pick up your cross daily and follow him.

Also remember, you're not bearing this cross alone. Some say Simon only carried one end of the cross, not all of it. Christ likely carried the heavier end. That's true for you, too; you're carrying the lighter end while Christ bears the heavier part.

Simon bore the cross for only a short time, but was honored for it. Likewise, our cross is for a short while before we receive the crown of glory. We should embrace the cross and treasure it, for it leads to an eternal weight of glory.