Reflection for the 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time, 2025

Isaiah 66:18-21; Psalm 117; Hebrews 12: 5-7, 11-13; Luke 13: 23-30

Strive to enter through the narrow gate,

for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter

but will not be strong enough.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus answered a pointed question and related it to how we live our own lives.  A man asked, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?”  Our Lord responded with a challenge: “Strive to enter through the narrow gate.”

What is “the narrow gate” through which we must pass?  For each of us it will be different.  “Narrow” implies a couple of things.  One is the need to trim down, to discard excess, in a culture that currently glorifies the opposite, urging consumers to possess and experience continually more.  “Narrow” can also imply focus and concentration.

Do you remember art classes during your elementary years?  Most children looked forward to art class and didn’t want to miss it.  However, sometimes the teacher set limitations on an art assignment which could seem to make it harder to complete.  As you grew older, the expectations were raised; more was asked of you.  Yet, despite limitations, it was still possible.

Extreme effort, combined with exceptional gifts, has produced masterpieces.  Think of Van Gogh’s splendid Starry Night or the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Some of the best works of art have been created amidst a narrowing of limitations, and by sacrifice.

Our Lord asks each of us to narrow our vision to the beautiful plan He has for us; carefully considering our choices as we work on the design of our own lives.  Whether these happenings give me wonder, pain, or joy, all the events of life are part of God’s design and may require sacrifice.  These sacrifices were not easy for the great artists of the past, nor will they be for us, but God has had a plan for me and for you from all eternity.

He will make known His design, His plan, through prayer and meditations, as you open yourself to His Holy Spirit.  The great artists pondered much over their ideas, and God has pondered much over you, His beloved child.  He is the master Artist who will help you use the gifts He has given you to produce something very beautiful.

Praise the Lord, all you nations;

Glorify Him, all you peoples!

For steadfast is his kindness toward us,

And the fidelity of the Lord endures forever (Psalm 117)