Wednesday – 30th Week in Ordinary Time

Gospel – Luke 13:22-30

A Tight Squeeze

Caesarea Philippi

Years ago, when I was considerably younger and a bit foolhardy, I took a weekend camping trip with some buddies of mine down to southern Illinois to Garden of the Gods, a beautiful state park with magnificent mountains, rock outcroppings and miles of scenic trails.  One particular path took us through “Fat Man Squeeze”, a very narrow gap between huge slabs of rock.  It was not for the faint-hearted.  The only way through was to squeeze through sideways and holding your breath. It took courage and stamina and the willingness to suffer a bit for the experience.   I took a pass and skipped that little adventure! No thank you!  I will just stand aside and watch someone else navigate that ‘squeeze’.

Jesus today talks about striving to enter through the narrow gate.  His intent is clear – entering the Kingdom will take effort and courage.  It is not a simple walk through the woods.  You have to work for it with faith and certainly a good dose of humility.  And not just once but all throughout our lives!  Maybe some days it will feel like a very tight squeeze, but the rewards are eternal.

Walk with me, Lord!  Be with me in times of trial and testing.  Grant me courage and faith to see Your Will and work to carry it out in my daily life!

 

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