Today's Thoughts...

​Today’s Thoughts: If I had to pick a theme or a focus for the Gospels that we have heard throughout the summer it might be discipleship. Or maybe said differently what it takes to be a Christian or Catholic. Each week for the last few months Jesus has challenged his disciples, he has challenged us to see things differently and thus to live life differently.
 
Jesus’ words have often been hard to swallow and at times have caused tension within us. Jesus often asks us to go against the way the world sees things, the way the world does business. Today’s Gospel is no different. When asked who will be saved, Jesus tells us, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate.” The world might say, “Look for the biggest gate there is.” Take the easiest way. But Jesus say, “Go for the narrow gate.” In other words, take a different path, a path that is often harder. Be faithful to your relationship with God. Do get caught up in the things of the world. Be faithful!
 
It is not an easy journey and Jesus has told us this over and over again. It is hard, difficult and at times it can be impossible. It is a journey that can turn things upside down. The last go first and the first go last. It is a journey where the rewards in this life are often small but the journey through this life is only temporary thus the rewards in the life to come will be profound. Yes, God is a merciful God but at some point our time in this life will be over and it will be important to be ready. Because if we are not ready when God calls. If we have not been faithful to this relationship. If we have not strived for the narrow gate. We will find ourselves outside where there is “wailing and grinding of teeth.”
 
As our responsorial psalm tells us a disciple, a Christian, a Catholic is someone who goes out to all the world and tells the Good News. It is not easy. It is not something that everyone is doing. Yet in the long run it will make all the difference.
 
Have a great Sunday everyone.