The Narrow Gate Leads to life: “Those who find it are few”

June 27, Tuesday of the 12th week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Genesis 13:2, 5-18; Gospel: Matthew 7:6,12-14 

Passing through a narrow gate gives us physical discomfort and a fear of danger. Physical pain because we need to find ways to fit in; fear of trouble because we do not know what awaits us behind the door during our passing. Activities outside our comfort zone require faith, courage, determination, and perseverance.

My adoptive parents were both teachers. Growing up with them since age five was a year of emotional suffering and pain for me. My adjustment to people at home, school, and all around me wasn’t easy. There were rules to follow at the table, chores to be done, time to observe, and no playmates like I used to have. I felt so bad not having people to talk to because they were busy with work and social responsibilities.

I was affected to the extent that I became rebellious and moody. My calling to religious life asked me to turn around 99.99 percent of what I believed and wanted in life. This led me to forgive the people who offended me and ask forgiveness from them as well for the offense I had committed.  Struggling harder against my ego after years, I succeeded at last.  

God is just! I won over my pride. It was brutal and humiliating, but I got it after such a long time. I passed through the narrow gate, humbling myself in front of God in prayer to be able to forgive people who caused me pain. I  then felt free and spiritually alive. The love of God won over me and healed me of the wounds of life; I turned into a wounded healer. God is just saying that he wants us to be happy. We are reminded that “He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.”  Do not be afraid to pass the narrow gate.

Let us pray for the gift of wisdom and understanding.