Imagine yourself listening to Jesus as He teaches about salvation and the Kingdom of God. Wouldn’t you too want to ask Him, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” Wouldn’t you too like to know your odds? But Jesus does not give a direct answer. Instead, He tells those listening to “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.” Jesus cautions us that the opportunity to enter through the narrow gate is limited, and those who think they will surely pass through may find themselves on the outside…too little, too late! So, what is the point Jesus is trying to get across? Our focus should not be on our individual chances of entering the Kingdom of heaven. It is not for us to know the answer to this question. Jesus tells us that some who appear likely to be first (in line to pass through) will be last; and some unlikely ones will be first. Case in point: the penitent thief (perhaps even a murderer) hanging next to Jesus was assured by Jesus that he would be with him in paradise. In short, Jesus’ answer to this question is “judge not” and stay on the path that He has set forth. The recent term “Vanilla” Catholics comes to mind. How many of us attend Mass (more or less regularly), pray (more or less regularly) and maybe even engage in a few parish related activities? Is this enough to pass through the “narrow” gate? Or do we need to examine our individual lives and our faith? Are we living the Gospel? Are we truly following Jesus, especially when the going gets tough? Where is our treasure? Is it in earthly things or heavenly ones? In other words, how are we truly responding as we journey toward the ”narrow” gate?Reflection by parishioner, Dale Gerber