One of the interesting things about the Gospels is that when Jesus is asked a question, he hardly ever responds with a direct answer. Often, he will respond with a parable, or by asking another question of the person who approached him. The answer to the original question is given, but it is buried under layers of meaning. It is up to the hearer, therefore, to discern the answer from Jesus’ words.
This can be frustrating for us, especially when we want things to be “black and white.” We just want a simple yes or no answer, and instead we are met with something far different. Today’s Gospel is no exception. Jesus responds to the question about salvation by telling the asker to “strive to enter through the narrow door.” In essence, Jesus is instructing the person to worry about themselves, and not be concerned with how many others will be saved.
There is a great brilliance behind these words, and behind the fact that Jesus does not directly answer the question. If Jesus were to have said “Yes, only a few will be saved,” imagine what that would do to our thinking. Imagine how easy it would be to begin to compare ourselves to others, and to look down on those whom we do not agree with by simply saying that “they are not among the few who will be saved.” Conversely, imagine the fear that some might experience, thinking that they are not “good enough” to be one of the few who will be saved. It would not make the world an easy place to live.
By telling us to focus on our own need for salvation, Jesus instructs us to refrain from the temptation to compare ourselves to others, and to judge ourselves based on the actions of others. Focusing on ourselves helps us to recognize our own need for God’s grace in our lives, and to truly keep our sights set on the goal of eternal life. This will help us to truly experience God’s joy in our lives, and to keep our sights set on entering the narrow gate.
I want to extend a word of thanks to all of those who helped to make our celebrations last weekend at Assumption and St. Angela so successful. It was wonderful to see so many people present at the outdoor Masses and taking part in the celebrations. For me, the presence of so many people is a wonderful sign of hope as we move out from underneath the shadow of the pandemic. May the Lord continue to bless all in our Family of Parishes!
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Steven Huber, CSB