In our reading for this Sunday, the 2nd Sunday of Lent, we encounter the words of Jesus saying “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and not be able.” (Luke 13:24)
When Jesus says “strive”, St. Luke records the word as meaning to fight, compete, as an athlete does. So today, as we approach these readings for Sunday, let’s consider what this might mean for us.
By using the word associated with competing, with a fight from the individual as they compete, we can grasp the construct quite easily. If one wants to be a great football player, as an example, they must spend many hours in practice, in strength training, in study, in competition. This also works for other areas of analogy, such as one becoming a professional musician through many years of practice and dedication. So to for the best-selling author, the sought-after mechanic, the roofer, the electrician, the animal trainer, etc.
The narrow door that Jesus speaks of is one that is approached by our striving, our competitive fire of pursuit which results in growth, strength, and endurance. The narrow door is the door to salvation. Many will seek it, many will seek to enter through it, and many will not be able.
Speaking of the “able” part, this may also be understood as the competitive fight. The ability noted here in this verse is about strength, endurance, and growth. A runner does not begin their running by entering a marathon. If they do, they will not be able to find the finish line (most likely). This is the “able” that Jesus speaks of here in this verse.
So today, as we approach the 2nd Sunday of Lent and reach the end of the first quarter of the season, let us reflect upon our fire and our competitiveness. Are we truly and deeply with every ounce of our being striving to enter through the narrow door? Jesus says many will seek to do so, but many will not be able. Here are a few familiar verses to pray over as you self-reflect (Matthew 11:28-30, ESV):
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
O God, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, and light riseth up in darkness for the godly: Grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what thou wouldest have us do, that the Spirit of wisdom may save us from all false choices; that in thy light we may see light, and in thy straight path we may not stumble; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Prayer #77, 2019 BCP, pg. 669).