[NYer]

They emolated this behavior because it was His suffering [and death] that brought about our salvation.

Thank you for the explanation. In looking at the lives of saints then vs those from more contemporary times, the personal sufferings impress me as being far greater. Perhaps, too, that is because their lives were much shorter.

[pascendi]

"In looking at the lives of saints then vs those from more contemporary times, the personal sufferings impress me as being far greater."

I have not found this to be the case, starting from the 19th century and moving forward.

[pascendi]

You may have seen it or read it already, but in case not, this is an excellent book.