Strive for the narrow gate

Sisters and brothers in Christ, in his recent reflection on today's Gospel, the Holy Father - Pope Francis - said the good news is, many can enter the narrow gate. In other words, we all have the same opportunity in our lifetime to work towards being able to enter through the narrow gate - ALL OF US. 

Jesus is very precise with his words, saying: "Strive to enter through the narrow gate". The definition of "strive" is to "make great efforts to achieve or obtain something", and that "something" we want to attain is the kingdom of God. Christ also understands the weakness of our human condition, saying: "for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough." Nevertheless, we must "strive to enter through the narrow gate". What is our alternative because "the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction" (Matthew 7:13).

Where do we start? Well, we start with our family. As members of the "domestic church" that is our family, we must lead our family members on the path that leads through the narrow gate. That is our most sacred responsibility - to help each other get to heaven. Saint Paul tells us how in his Letter to the Ephesians: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother. This is the first commandment with a promise, that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on earth. Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up with the training and instruction of the Lord."

. . .

Gospel of the Day

Jesus passed through towns and villages,

teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem.

Someone asked him,

"Lord, will only a few people be saved?"

He answered them,

"Strive to enter through the narrow gate,

for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter

but will not be strong enough.

After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door,

then will you stand outside knocking and saying,

'Lord, open the door for us.'

He will say to you in reply,

'I do not know where you are from.'

And you will say,

'We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.'

Then he will say to you,

'I do not know where you are from.

Depart from me, all you evildoers!'

And there will be wailing and grinding of teeth

when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

and all the prophets in the Kingdom of God

and you yourselves cast out.

And people will come from the east and the west

and from the north and the south

and will recline at table in the Kingdom of God.

For behold, some are last who will be first,

and some are first who will be last."