Through the Narrow Gate to God’s Inclusive Future

In this Sunday’s reflections, we are invited to deepen our understanding of both the inclusive nature of God’s vision for us, and how urgent it is for us to respond to our own calling.  

In the first reading from Isaiah (66:18-22), we have a marvelous, inclusive vision of all nations coming together as one community, heading toward Jerusalem to worship and live as one. In this future time, even new worship leaders will arisefrom unexpected places.

Then, in the second reading (Heb 12:5-7,11-13) and the Gospel (Lk 13:22-30),there is a shift in tone. These passages remind us that this era of full inclusion isstill unfolding, and that the present day brings many challenges to the fulfillment of Isaiah’s vision. But we are encouraged not to lose heart, and to treat our challenges as a form of training, preparing us, much like athletes, for what lies ahead. In the Gospel Jesus says to “strive to enter through the narrow gate,” a metaphor for the decision to follow him. The path is a narrow lane in a busy,complex world and requires us to stay alert and attentive.  

When God appears in scripture, the first words usually heard are: “Don’t be afraid!” That is because God is not a judgmental tyrant but a loving, creative, joy-filled energy and presence. As Leon Bloy reminds us, joy is the most infallible indication of God’s presence. So, let’s hold on to our dream of inclusivity and make our way through that narrow gate.

1.Can you share a time when you felt challenged to walk a more focused or narrow path in your faith?

2. How does the concept of God’s inclusive future inspire you in your daily walk of faith?

3.In what ways can we help others see that the narrow gate isn’t about exclusion but about a deeper commitment?