Two weeks ago as I walked in the neighborhood, I saw houses decorated with scary skeletons, spiders, witches, coffins, etc….I think people are so much into bad spirits which could give them an opening to bad spirits’ infestations. They never realize that some welcome the prince of darkness in disguise. To knock on the door, like “trick-or-treaters,” the unknown power of darkness could molest them.
Our readings today remind us to be obedient to our parents and to our superiors and, at the same time, believing in the faithfulness of the Lord so that we can enter into the kingdom of heaven for our salvation.
The first reading starts with a directive to obey and honor our parents. In fact, in the Old Testament, it was promised that those who are respectful and loving towards their parents will be abundantly rewarded, especially with a long life. The parents, on the other hand, should not provoke their children in anger but make them happy to connect with God. Parents must also be loving and kind reflecting the whole family as faithful followers of the Lord. So, no matter what, we should always serve the Lord in all we do. We should serve Him in our actions and attitudes and keep Him as the center of our family.
The gospel today narrates to us about someone from the crowd asking Jesus, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” Jesus answered using the image of a “narrow gate”, saying many will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough, and many others will be turned away when they knock on the door. What is the “narrow gate? It can be a metaphor for many things, or it may be challenging and difficult. Maybe, we should not be careless in our faith in the Lord. There must be a commitment on our part, like making critical decisions and free choice so that in having serious discernment we can arrive at this narrow gate, then finally be led to salvation. I believe that in this desire and longing to enter the “narrow gate,” we should truly place much attention on the present moment and not be defined by our resentments from the past or fears and anxieties of the future.
Let us pray that Jesus will lead us on the right path to arrive at, and be able to enter through, the right door. Let us strive hard until the path is completely right and the door is open wide enough that we may enter. Jesus is knocking at the door of every heart; let us never lack in hope.
God bless you.
Fr. Arlon, osa