Gospel Reflection - 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C

Luke 13:22-30

"Have you been saved?" This often asked question posed by some Christians usually refers to their "once saved, always saved" belief, where one chooses a baptism of repentance needed only once for salvation. However, all of us were saved the moment Jesus died on the cross, when He chose to take on the sins of the world. As Catholics, we accept & partake in that gift of salvation each time we approach the altar to receive Jesus at Mass - Body, Blood, Soul, & Divinity. 

There's a caveat though - we must want & choose to be saved. That's no easy task! We are bombarded daily by temptations & distractions of the world. Those are often easier to achieve, but not fulfilling in the long run. How do we overcome those to enter through the narrow gate Jesus mentions?

In Jesus' time, most cities typically had three entry gates. The largest was used by those travelling with carts, animals, & various belongings. The two smaller ones were for those who travelled with less. So, for us to enter the narrow gate to Heaven, we must dispose of our extra baggage -  jealousy, petty grievances, pride, & sin which weighs us down, getting us stuck in the gate like Winnie the Pooh in the hole of Rabbit's house. Through prayer & following the examples set by the saints who've crossed the threshold of the gate to the Eternal City, we can enter through the narrow gate as well.

What has been your response when asked if you've been saved?

What baggage do you need to let go of to fit through the narrow gate?