THE WORD AMONG US MEDITATION ON THE MASS READINGS SUNDAY, AUGUST 25, 21ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Meditation: Luke 13:22-30 “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” (Luke 13:23) These are perhaps the scariest words in Scripture. Embedded within this fellow’s question is the fear that many will not be saved—will end up in hell. Now hell is a miserable, lonely place devoid of all love. So how should we think about these words? Are we to walk around in fear, constantly worrying if we are among the many or the few? No. In his answer, Jesus shifts the focus from a general question to a specific one. He is not interested in addressing this man’s curiosity or in giving population statistics of heaven and hell. Instead he says that every person should do everything possible to make sure he or she is among the “saved.” Then he tells how: “Strive to enter through the narrow door” (Luke 13:24). Yes, we are saved by faith. But our faith must be backed up by our actions. We still have to strive to enter heaven. Striving is not wishful thinking. It’s not a vague hope. It’s not something we take care of in our spare time. No, striving to enter heaven should be the top priority of our lives. It’s what we “seek first” above everything else (Matthew 6:33). Striving has to do with contending, putting forth a great effort, even pushing through some agonizing moments. A person who strives protects every time of prayer, stays focused on Jesus during every Mass, and does everything possible to care for the poor and needy. She or he has one goal in mind: to win the prize of heaven. Nothing takes precedence over that goal. Jesus also told his followers that heaven is not foregone conclusion. He says, in fact, that some people will be surprised to find that they don’t sail right through the pearly gates (Luke 13:25-27). But he does promise that everyone who believes in him, follows him, and bears fruit for him will find the way. And those are hopeful words indeed. “Jesus, I want to be with you forever. Please keep me on the pathway to salvation.” Isaiah 66:18-21; Psalm 117:1-2; Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13
Posted on: Sun, 25 Aug 2013 02:04:46 +0000
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