Though it was one among the jokingly-stated comments, the world media reported it in headlines, and people around the world took it seriously as a shocking revelation.

Talking to reporters on a flight back to the Vatican from South Korea, the 77-year-old pontiff, was in a funny mood, and reporters were asking him funny questions about his global popularity.

"I see it as the generosity of the people of God. I try to think of my sins, my mistakes, not to become proud. Because I know it will last only a short time. Two or three years and then I'll be off to the Father's House," he replied light-heartedly.

This is the first time Pope Francis talks about his own death, giving himself 2 or 3 more years but not ruling out retirement before that to follow the path of Pope Benedict whom he calls "elder brother".

While Pope has not spoken publicly before about when he might meet his Creator (God the Father), a Vatican source said he had previously told those close to him that he thought he only had a few years left.

Last week, while in Korea, he travelled in a small "KIA Soul" economy car but his officials were in large luxury sedans.

Pope Francis also mentioned the possibility of retiring from the Papacy, as his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI did last year, if he felt he could no longer adequately perform his duties.

Resigning the papacy was a possibility "even if it does not appeal to some theologians", he told reporters. "Pope Benedict opened the door" for it, he said. Pope also admitted that he has health related problems and his body is weak. He also recalled that the last time he'd taken a holiday outside of his native Argentina was "with the Jesuit community in 1975 ".

In my opinion, this statement about his own death is only a reflection of his humbleness and subservience. He always called himself a servant and sinner; often asking the laity to pray for him and help the poor. By discarding all pomposity and luxury of his position he has humbled all world leaders who use people's money to satisfy their pride, prejudice and selfish ambitions.

It is time for the "people of God" to pray to God for extending the life of Pope Francis, keeping him in good health and protection of the Holy Spirit.