Francis reflects on following the cross

Catholics must choose whether to follow a life of “well-being” or to follow Jesus, cross and all, Pope Francis said in today’s homily from Casa Santa Marta, according to Vatican Radio.

Francis was reflecting on Luke’s Gospel in which Jesus tells his apostles of his impending suffering and death. Upon hearing that, Francis said, the apostles expressed horror. According to Matthew’s version, the pope said, “Peter was frightened and scandalized, just like many Christians” who say “this will never happen to you, I will follow you up to this point.”

But, he continues, many can follow Jesus’ suffering only so far and then they back away, returning to their own comfort zones.

“The proof if somebody is a true Christian is his or her ability to endure humiliations with joy and patience,” he said. We must choose “whether to be a Christian of well-being or a Christian close to Jesus” who walks along the path of the Cross.”