Being a Cross-bearer

Throughout history we see that Jesus has many lovers of His heavenly kingdom, but few cross-bearers. It is our natural inclination to desire His consolation, but few of us are willing to suffer His tribulation.

Many will sit down with Him at the table, but few will share His fast. We all desire to rejoice with Him, but few of us will suffer for Him. Many will follow Him to the breaking of the bread, but few will drink the bitter cup of His Passion. Many revere His miracles, but few follow the shame of His cross. Many love Jesus when all goes well with them, and praise Him when He does them a favor; but if Jesus conceals Himself and leaves them for a little while, they fall to complaining or become depressed. 

Do you love Jesus purely for Himself and not for your own sake blessing Him in all trouble and anguish as well as in times of consolation?

Lord, allow me to be a cross-bearer living in purity of love for You, without any self-interest or self-love.