Catholic Identity  

Gospel Reflection

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Summary 

Jesus is saying that following him takes effort and commitment - it’s like trying to squeeze through a narrow door. It’s not enough to just know about him or be near him; we need to really live out his teachings in our choices and actions. God’s kingdom will surprise us: people we don’t expect will be included, and the usual rankings of “important” and “unimportant” will be turned upside down. 

Gospel Reading: Luke 13:22-30 

Through towns and villages Jesus went teaching, making his way to Jerusalem. Someone said to him, ‘Sir, will there be only a few saved?’ He said to them, ‘Try your best to enter by the narrow door, because I tell you, many will try to enter and will not succeed. 

  ‘Once the master of the house has got up and locked the door, you may find yourself knocking on the door, saying, “Lord, open to us” but he will answer, “I do not know where you come from.” Then you will find yourself saying, “We once ate and drank in your company; you taught in our streets” but he will reply, “I do not know where you come from. Away from me, all you wicked men!” 

  ‘Then there will be weeping and grinding of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves turned outside. And men from east and west, from north and south, will come to take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. 

  ‘Yes, there are those now last who will be first, and those now first who will be last.’ 

Reflection 

This story reminds us that being a follower of Jesus isn’t about labels or appearances - it’s about living with love, faith, and honesty. Just saying “I know Jesus” isn’t enough; we show we belong to him by the way we treat people and live out his words. 

The “narrow door” is like the daily challenge of choosing patience instead of anger, kindness instead of selfishness, forgiveness instead of holding grudges. Those choices can feel hard, but they’re what lead us closer to God. 

And Jesus reminds us not to judge who “belongs” in God’s family. People from all walks of life, near and far, will be welcomed. God sees the heart, not just outward appearances. 

• What “narrow door” choices (hard but good choices) am I facing in my life right now? 
• Do my actions show that I follow Jesus, or am I just going through the motions? 
• How can I make others feel included at the “table” of God’s love? 

Prayer 

Jesus, 

Help me to follow you not just with my words but with my life. When the narrow door feels too hard, give me strength to choose what is good and loving. Teach me to be humble and welcoming, remembering that your kingdom includes everyone. Keep my heart close to you, so that when the door opens, I may sit at your table with joy. 

Amen