Three Responses to the Broad Way

Scripture: Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13-14

Observation: This is one of the earliest statements by Jesus that makes it clear that a life of faith is the life of a minority. It is the hard life. It is the unpopular choice. Walking with God takes you through the small gate on the narrow road, that only a few people will choose, while the great majority walk the broad road through the wide gate.

Application: There was a time I would not have believed that most people are choosing death, because I just assumed most people were at least some kind of 'Christian'. There was another time in my life I would not have believed that Jesus had this sentiment, because certainly he would want the majority of people to choose life. However, I now know ... God has provided Jesus as the way to life, but afforded all people with free will, and the majority of people will choose death.

I can respond to this reality with three thoughts. First, I will choose life, and I will choose Jesus. I do not care who is against me, or who may think I am wrong-headed or odd, I will always and forever be a follower of Jesus Christ, who is my Lord and savior. Second, I recognize that most people around me are not believers, and I will do what I can to deliver the loving Gospel message to them. I will actively do this with evangelical intent, and I will passively do this with simple light and salt. But I will recognize that most people need to hear the good news, and I will try my best to deliver it.

Finally, I now know and will always remember that the majority of people are against these beliefs. They think faith in Jesus is odd, or even wrong, and they may react with anger, hate, and hostility. It may cost me again, and I will attempt to avoid that by being very alert and aware.

Prayer: Lord, I walk with you through the narrow gate, and the little path where you and I can simply be together. I reject the popular and easy way of life, for I know that it is unfulfilling, evil, and leads to death. May I grow in this journey with you, and may I find opportunity to tell the majority of this better way. Amen.