STRIVE TO ENTER!

I was praying with this Gospel before daily Mass, and I immediately thought of all of us trying to get into our parking lot these days!  — “Jesus passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” He answered them, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.” (Luke 13:22-24)

Why is Jesus inviting us to pass through a narrow gate? After all, a narrow gate is uncomfortable. It squeezes. It is difficult and requires letting go of the things we are used to. Getting through a narrow gate means loving when it is costly and forgiving when it is painful. It means showing up for Mass even when it takes longer than usual. It is not the easy choice. 

But easy paths really produce no change and take for granted the sacrifices that help us grow.  The narrow gate is a path of purpose, one that demands patience and perseverance to get through.  As Jesus made his way towards Jerusalem, he took the opportunity to inform the disciples that entry into the kingdom of God is not automatic. Entry requires effort, discipline, humility, repentance, and turning away from sin.

With the ongoing Fifth Street construction we definitely have a “narrow gate” to enter these days!  So many of us want to “be saved”!  We want Jesus!  But getting here can be a challenge!  The road is narrow.  There are construction vehicles along the way.  There are pylons and barriers.  We have to really slow down.  We really have to “strive to enter.”  Are you strong enough? Are you strong enough to be patient!  Are you strong enough to be courteous to each other and to the police officers who direct traffic on Sunday mornings?  Please strive!

Thanks so much to all of you who join us for Mass every Sunday and Holy Day!  Thanks to our parishioners and the many visitors who support the mission of Jesus here from our parish.  We are “Pilgrims of Hope” in this Jubilee Year of Hope — and beyond!  The Fifth Street project will eventually come to an end, and we will really appreciate how much we have grown in patience, courtesy, and sacrifice! 

May Jesus bless you with Peace!

Fr. Mark Zacker

Pastor