"Strive to enter through the narrow door" (Luke 13:24).
Jesus describes the door to heaven as narrow, and by the end of the Gospel it becomes possible to measure it exactly. The narrow door is the exact width of the holy cross. Another way of putting it is that the narrow door is fourteen words wide: "God, be merciful to me, a sinner" (Luke 18:13). And: "Take heart, child, your sins are forgiven" (Matt. 9:2). Pray and hear these words before the cross and you will enter through the narrow door.
But why does He say, "Strive (struggle, strain) to enter"? The Greek word is "agonize." Because it's going to be a fight. Jesus is calling you to a life of repentance and faith in Him. This is the life for you. But to live it will mean a fight against the devil, the world, and the flesh, all of whom want you to live for now, and not for heaven. But the Holy Spirit will aid you in the fight. The Holy Helper! And He will help you by the Holy Word and Sacrament!
Despite public pressure, don't be afraid to be narrow-minded in your faith. It is necessary in order to enter through the narrow door.
Let your faith be narrow, and let your love be broad!
