I MUSTN'T MINIMIZE SIMON'S kindness just because the gospel tells us he was "pressed into service." We all know this kind of scenario: the telephone rings and there's an urgent request and I'd rather be left alone to eat my meal, listen to my music, finish my work or watch my show.
A woman's van flipped and went off the road on a snowy evening. A window was broken and the the vehicle's interior quickly grew cold. A passerby stopped. After phoning for an ambulance, she stayed with the driver who couldn't be moved. Covering her legs with her own coat and holding her hand, she prayed for the people who were coming to help and for all the people traveling on dangerous roads.
As the gurney was being put into the ambulance, the Samaritan said good-bye with warm wishes and a kiss. Simon walked with Jesus and helped him one step at a time. Love is kind.
Our Father Who Art in Heaven...
Hail Mary full of grace...
Glory be to the Father...
