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Scripture: Matthew 27:32: As they went out, they came upon a man from Cyrene named Simon; they compelled this man to carry his cross. Abridged: The more we follow the example of Jesus, the more erratic we may appear to a world that does not understand the manner in which the Holy Spirit leads our lives. Meditation: The more successful we become in following the example of Jesus, the more erratic we may appear to a world that does not understand, and may even fear, the manner in which the Holy Spirit leads our lives. Jesus told his disciples, "The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit." We need to be cautious, however, that we do not become erratic by virtue of our own thoughts rather than as a result of being moved by the Holy Spirit within us. If we find ourselves thinking "This is what God wants me to do," there is a strong likelihood that we are responding more to our own needs than to the task God needs us to accomplish. On the other hand, when we are thinking, "I am not sure if I can do this thing, but I am compelled in my heart to share God's love in this way," there is a much greater probability that the Holy Spirit is empowering us and moving us according to God's plan. If we have a vision, goal, and desired result for our work, we are likely responding to a plan of our own making. When we respond to the leading of the Holy Spirit, our only vision, goal, and desired result is to grow and share God's love in the world, without knowing where or why we are going. Prayer: It is good to be in your presence, God of everlasting life. Here, we find comfort as we bow our heads in prayer. In this place of prayer, we find the strength to face another trial, another day of confusion, and another hour of anxiety and fear. Thank you, Gracious One, for your protecting hand and empowering love. Amen Enter password: .