30th Week in Ordinary Time 2021 - Wednesday - Strive to enter through the narrow gate

 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.”

The Greek word translated “strive” in this morning’s Gospel is agonizomai, from which we get the English word agonize. The implication here is that those who seek to enter the narrow gate must do so by struggle and strain, like a running athlete straining toward the finish line, all muscles taut and giving his all in the effort.

I don’t think it is a coincidence that Jesus’ passion begins with the “agony” in the garden, where he strives, and agonizes, to do the Will of the Father.  

The narrow gate of faithfulness is difficult for us because of our human pride, our attachment to sin, our attraction to worldliness and sensual delight, and of course the opposition of Satan.

Despite the difficulty and opposition, Jesus urges us to strive—to agonize—to enter the narrow gate.

Notice Jesus doesn’t say, stand at the gate, look at it, and complain about how narrow it is.  Some Christians look at the commandments of God and teachings of the Church and reject them, claiming that they are too narrow, too rigid or outdated.  They seek to refashion the gate, and make it wider.  But that’s not what Jesus asks.

Entering the narrow gate requires us to change.  Sometimes we are clinging to things that just can’t pass through the narrow gate: our selfish clinging to worldly delights, our grudges, our fears.  We are called to make the adjustment to our minds and hearts, to let go of all that keeps us from following Christ more wholeheartedly.  

Through the Eucharist we celebrate today, may God give us the strength to strive to follow the way of Christ amidst all obstacles and worldly temptations for the glory of God and salvation of souls.

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That the faithful of our parish may strive for holiness in their personal habits, their relationships and daily endeavors.

That young people will be blessed with good Christian example from their parents and fellow Christians, and that the word of God might be cherished, studied, and practiced in every Christian home. 

During and following this month of October, dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary, Catholics may take up this devotion with renewed vigor and trust in Our Lady’s never-failing intercession. 

For the healing of all those afflicted with physical, mental, emotional illness, for those in hospitals, nursing homes, hospice care, those struggling with addictions, for those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and those who will die today.

For the repose of the souls of our beloved dead, for all of the poor souls in purgatory, for the deceased members of our families, friends, and parish, for deceased clergy and religious, for those who have fought and died for our freedom.