Why Do You Follow Jesus?

Jesus has always many who love his heavenly kingdom, but few who bear his cross.

He has many who desire consolation, but few who care for trial.

He finds many to share his table, but few to take part in his fasting.

All desire to be happy with him; few wish to suffer anything for him.

Many follow him to the breaking of bread, but few to the drinking of the chalice of his passion.

Many revere his miracles; few approach the shame of the cross.

Many love him as long as they encounter no hardship; many praise and bless him as long as they receive some comfort from him.

- Thomas a Kempis, The Imitation of Christ