By Richardson P csc –
Readings: 2 Kgs 19:9b-11, 14-21, 31-35a, 36; Mt 7:6, 12-14
Today, through the gospel reading, Jesus invites me to choose the narrow way and enter the destination through the narrow gate. As I reflect upon the following expressions of Jesus in this gospel, “Enter through the narrow gate; the gate which is narrow and the road that is hard leads to life” (Mt 7:13, 14), some questions came to my mind: What do I have to do to value the cost of discipleship and follow Jesus faithfully in my daily life? Do I allow myself to be guided and attracted by the narrow and demanding path of the gospel? Or do I follow the wide and easy road that consists of doing what pleases me or that leads me to satisfy my desires, neglecting the needs of the others?
Today, Jesus promises me that, he is with me always to guide, to support, and to lead through the narrow ways to reach the destination. Here, the word destination is not only the target that I focused on in life. The destination is to reach the Father’s house and enjoy the eternal bliss with God forever. All through his life on earth, Jesus entered through narrow ways, and completed the race successfully as a trustworthy and beloved Son of God.
Like a human being, Jesus struggled, cried and carried the daily crosses, but he never decided to give up what Father had entrusted him to do on earth. He faced reality with complete hope and trust in Father alone. Therefore, he accomplished the Father’s will faithfully on earth. Jesus continues to promise me: ‘I am with you always, as your shepherd and companion to walk and to lead into the green pastures, trust and come to me, let’s walk together.’