Matthew 7:12-14, The Golden Rule and Narrow Gate

12 “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

13 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.

Comments

As Matthew concludes the Sermon on the Mount, he ends with “The Golden Rule”; love God and love your neighbor. In two pithy sentences, Jesus teaches that discipleship is costly. While the road with the crowd is wide and roomy, Jesus’ path is narrow and restricted because of the loyalty and devotion required.

Thirty years ago, I asked the managing partner of my architecture firm when I would be made partner. He said, “When we see that architecture is the number one priority in your life.” I realized that God, my wife, and my family took priority over architecture.” This question shaped the direction of my life.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, in you we live and move and have our being: We humbly pray you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that we are ever walking in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(BCP, p. 100)