More on the Passion

Another scene that was particularly moving for me was when Jesus had been carrying his cross and couldn't bear to continue. Simon was directed to help him. They struggled together up the hill and Simon got to the point where he could no longer handle the abuse and punishment he watched being inflicted on Jesus. He eventually started yelling at the soldiers to "stop! stop!".



That wasn't the part that moved me the most, I was setting up the scene. Jesus was exhausted and used the cross more as a "crutch" as Simon beared most of the weight. Jesus, moaning and bleeding, exhausted and dying recieved encouragement from the one who helped him carry His cross. Simon said "you are almost there. Almost there" as if relief was coming soon. His torture was soon to end and Simon tried to encourage the Son of God to continue His journey. I found that somewhat inspiring that this man, plucked from the crowd who helped Jesus carry the cross was used, at least in the film, to encourage Jesus to finish His mission. Simon demonstrated compassion and a merciful heart which God enabled to become bold. I thought that was cool.