Do to others, what you want done to you

Do to others, what you want done to you

By REV. FR. SAMUEL FREDERICK

Gen. 13:2.5-18, Mt. 7:6.12-14. We flourish better while working hard on a meaningful project, than if we have much leisure and little to do. We can achieve more than the next generation who simply receive the profit of our hard work in developing a business, a farm, or a family inheritance, at a golden platter. Abram’s story shows a way out of this impasse. His first goal was not wealth, prestige, honour or security, but peace. Amiably, he says to Lot: “Let there be no strife between your herdsmen and mine, for we are relatives.” With dignity, love and appreciation of family thigh, he made the gracious offer: “If you prefer the left, I will go to the right; if you prefer the right, I will go to the left.” Abram shows flexibility and good judgment, an approach that illustrates the exhortation of Jesus in today's Gospel, not to toss our pearls before swine, or to follow the wide and easy way to a meaningless existence. The images of the narrow gate and the hard road suggest that discipleship can be a challenging path to follow.

While one can saunter through a wide gate without a second thought, to get through a narrow gate we must concentrate and focus our attention. It takes commitment to get through such a narrow way or taking the road least traveled. Being a true follower of Jesus requires our goodwill; focus, determination, concentration and commitment. One guide to fully share in the life of God is to think of our actions and see if we are acting towards others in a way we would want others to deal with us. Hence, Jesus places the “Golden Rule” before us so that we may begin to treat others nicely, not just because we would want to be treated nicely by them, but also that others may feel appreciated for who they are. The word “narrow” is generally pejorative. Just as we like to think of ourselves as broad-minded. No one wants to be considered narrow-minded, but the Gospel calls for a narrowing of focus in following Christ, excluding some pathways that are easy and well trodden. Saying “YES” to Christ’s way requires saying “NO” to selfish ways and desires. It requires staying focused and not just flowing with the crowd or going with majority opinion. Those who are able to act in this way truly “know” that God is with them, even though they may be experiencing the most trying of times. However, any “narrowing down” and self-denial in following Jesus ultimately leads to a great abandon of the 'SELF' to a full sharing in the life of God.

May the Lord take away our pride, temper, our anger and make our love for each other generous and sincere! Amen!! Good morning and have a pleasant day!!!

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