In his great work, The Imitation of Christ, Thomas Kempis writes that many will always love Christ’s heavenly kingdom, but few will bear his cross. Many are awed by his miracles; few accept the shame of his cross. Decide then, like a good and faithful servant of Christ, to bear the cross of your Lord bravely. It was out of love that he was crucified for you. Drink freely from the Lord’s cup if you wish to be his friend. Leave your need for consolation to God. Let him do as he wills. On your part, be ready to bear sufferings and consider how in these sufferings lies your greatest consolation. Realize that to know Christ; you must lead a dying life. The more you die to yourself, the more you will live unto God. You will never enjoy heavenly things unless you’re ready to suffer hardship for Christ. Nothing is more acceptable to God, nothing more helpful for you on this earth. When there is a choice to be made, take the narrow way. That alone will make you more like Christ.