Homily for Tuesday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time

The imagery of the narrow gate and the hard road in our Gospel passage suggests that discipleship can be challenging to follow. While one can stroll through a wide gate without a second thought, getting through a narrow gate requires concentration and focus. It takes commitment to get through such a narrow gap. Being a faithful follower of Jesus requires all of our goodwill.

The word "narrow" is generally negative; we often think we are broad-minded. No one wants to be considered narrow-minded. But the Gospel calls for narrowing our focus in following Christ, excluding some accessible and well-trodden pathways. Saying "Yes" to Christ's way requires saying "No" to selfish ways. However, any narrowing down and self-denial in the following of Jesus ultimately leads to a full sharing of God's life.