LUKE 23:26–31
JESUS ON THE WAY OF THE CROSS
Text – Luke 23:26–31
26 As they led him away, they took hold of a certain Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country; and after laying the cross on him, they made him carry it behind Jesus.
27 A large crowd of people followed Jesus, including many women who mourned and lamented him.
28 Jesus turned to them and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep instead for yourselves and for your children,
29 for indeed, the days are coming when people will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed.’
30 At that time people will say to the mountains, ‘Fall upon us!’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us!’
31 for if these things are done when the wood is green what will happen when it is dry?”
Historical and Jewish Context
Condemned criminals were required to carry the crossbeam to the place of execution. Jesus, weakened by scourging, is assisted by Simon of Cyrene, a foreign Jew or pilgrim from North Africa. The presence of mourning women reflects a Jewish custom of public lament. Jesus’ warning points beyond His own suffering to the coming destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, a judgment rooted in the people’s rejection of God’s visitation.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus’ words reveal His compassion even in suffering. He redirects sorrow from Himself to the spiritual consequences of sin and unbelief. Simon of Cyrene becomes a powerful image of discipleship: to follow Christ is to share His cross (CCC 618). The “green wood” signifies Jesus, innocent and full of life, while the “dry wood” symbolizes sinful humanity facing judgment without repentance.
Parallels in Scripture
Is 53:4 – He bears our sufferings.
Lk 9:23 – Whoever wishes to follow me must take up his cross daily.
Hos 10:8 – People call on mountains to cover them in judgment.
Rev 6:16 – Echo of judgment imagery.
Rom 8:17 – Sharing Christ’s sufferings to share His glory.
Key Terms
Simon of Cyrene – The man compelled to carry the cross, symbol of shared discipleship.
Cross – Instrument of execution transformed into the sign of salvation.
Daughters of Jerusalem – Women who mourn, representing the people of the city.
Green Wood / Dry Wood – Image contrasting Christ’s innocence with human sinfulness.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is central to the Stations of the Cross and Holy Week liturgies. The Church meditates on Simon’s role to teach that every believer is invited to participate in Christ’s redemptive suffering through love, patience, and faith.
Conclusion
On the road to Calvary, Jesus teaches even while suffering. His compassion, prophetic warning, and acceptance of help reveal the path of true discipleship: carrying the cross in hope and trust.
Reflection
Do I recognize the crosses God allows in my life as paths to grace?
Am I willing to help carry the burdens of others as Simon did?
Jesus calls me to follow Him faithfully, even when the way is difficult.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, as You walked the way of the Cross, You taught us the meaning of true love. Give me strength to carry my cross daily and grace to help others carry theirs, trusting in Your saving mercy. Amen.