The Gospel for today presents a series of familiar Bible admonitions. One of which is also known as the “Golden Rule”. It is one of the essential lessons we learn in childhood. However, have we really considered what it means to “treat one’s neighbor as one would with himself?”

I cannot help but connect it with what Jesus meant when he mentioned entering through the narrow gate that leads to life. There are times when we tend to choose the easy way when dealing with others, and give in to impatience and selfishness. On the other hand, helping and loving our neighbors is more difficult, just like entering a narrow gate.

The imagery of the narrow gate against the wide gate and broad road in the Gospel suggests the toil that is expected from us if we want to be Jesus’ true disciple. I realize that walking through a wide gate will not require us much thought, but passing through the narrow gate will entail us to focus our attention on the goal. It would take determination and focus on our ultimate aim, Jesus, to walk through the narrow gate.

I understood that walking through the narrow gate is walking on the path of love. Being Jesus’ follower is being a lover. Love can be very difficult, but it could also make everything sweet and acceptable. Jesus invites us to ponder the very essence of the narrow gate as the gate of love that leads to life.

By: Sem. Lester John D. Cabais

Today’s Gospel

Mt 7:6, 12-14

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine,
lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces.

“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.
This is the Law and the Prophets.

“Enter through the narrow gate;
for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction,
and those who enter through it are many.
How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life.
And those who find it are few.”