A passionate man whose fire became peace when he gave his heart to Jesus.
Simon was passionate. His heart beat fast when he talked about what mattered. He wanted things to be right and good and fair. That’s why he was called a Zealot — a person full of zeal. Zealots didn’t like being ruled by the Romans. They dreamed of a free land, a holy people, and justice for all.
Then Jesus called him. Jesus didn’t say, “Be less loud,” or “Hide your feelings.” He simply said: “Follow Me.” Simon followed. He left behind the shouting. He left behind the crowds. And he followed the quiet man from Nazareth.
Simon watched Jesus walk with sinners. He saw Him heal lepers and bless children. He heard Him say things like: “Blessed are the peacemakers. Love your enemies. Turn the other cheek.” And Simon began to understand: real change doesn’t come from shouting louder. It comes from loving deeper.
Simon stayed by Jesus’ side. Through miracles. Through teachings. Through the Cross. And even after Jesus rose again, Simon kept walking the path of peace. He went far from home. Some stories say he travelled with Jude Thaddeus. Others say he preached in Persia or Egypt.
Wherever he went, he didn’t fight with swords. He fought with hope and truth. He may not have written a Gospel. He may not have had big speeches. But he gave his whole heart. And his passion became peace.
Thought for the heart. God can use your strong heart — when you give it to Him in love.
A child’s prayer. Dear Saint Simon, sometimes I feel strong feelings inside. Help me not to hide them — but to bring them to Jesus. Teach me how to be bold and kind, brave and gentle, full of peace and full of love. Amen.
Journey with Mary, Path to Jesus 