Catholic Identity
Jake Wilkinson, Leader of Religious Education & Catholic Identity
Sacrament of Reconciliation
A reminder for any families who would like their child to make the sacraments of Reconciliation, please let Jake Wilkinson or the office know ASAP. The program will be starting soon.
Gospel Reading: Luke 13:22–30
"Jesus went through one town and village after another, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, ‘Lord, will only a few be saved?’ He said to them, ‘Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. Once the owner of the house has got up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, “Lord, open to us,” then in reply he will say to you, “I do not know where you come from.” Then you will begin to say, “We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.” But he will say to you, “I do not know where you come from; go away from me, all you evildoers!” There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrown out. Then people will come from east and west, from north and south, and take their places at the banquet in the kingdom of God. Indeed, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.’
Summary
In this passage, Jesus is journeying toward Jerusalem, teaching along the way. When asked whether only a few will be saved, he warns listeners to "strive to enter through the narrow door"—an image that emphasizes intentionality and urgency. He cautions that once the opportunity has passed—after the door is closed—those who delay or assume they'll be admitted easily may find themselves shut out, even if they've been familiar with his teachings. Meanwhile, others—from all directions—will be welcomed into God's kingdom, illustrating that entrance to God's banquet isn't about familiarity or entitlement, but about responding rightly. Lastly, the familiar closing line turns social norms upside down: "some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last."
Reflection Questions
- Jesus talks about the “narrow door.” What do you think this means, and how can you try to follow it in your own life?
- How can you make sure your faith is more than just knowing about Jesus, but actually living in a way that shows you follow Him?
- Jesus says people will come from all over the world to be part of God’s kingdom. What does this tell us about God’s love, and how should it change the way we treat others?
Prayer
Loving God,
You call us to seek the narrow gate with intentional hearts and open hands. Help us not to be complacent in our faith, but to walk each day with purpose, love, and sincerity.
When the door seems closed or the way gets hard, give us the courage to knock and trust Your grace.
Teach us to welcome all people, from near and far, into Your love.
And may we, in humility, live not for status or recognition—but for the upside-down values of Your kingdom, where last become first.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen.
