*REFLECTION FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C* 

"Try your best to enter by the narrow door, because I tell you, many will try to enter and will not succeed" (Luke 13: 24). This is the central message of this Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. The readings of today call to guard against two positions that stand against God's plan of salvation for us being fulfilled- sin against hope: despair and presumption (CCC 2091-2092). 

   The first reading (Is. 66: 18-21) gives a sense of reassurance that people of all nations will be welcomed into the presence of God. As fragrant offering in a clean vessel, we shall be offered to the Lord and experience the glory of God's presence. Am I disposed for this encounter? 

   In the gospel (Luke 13: 22-30), Jesus instructs on making effort to remain on the way to salvation. Do not presume God's mercy and then live unexamined or lose hope and give up trying because the road is narrow and sometimes difficult. Perseverance in faithfulness shall grant you victory of entrance into the Narrow Gate. 

   Dear friends, the words "Disciple" and "Discipline" come from the same Latin root- *discipulus* (student). Any true disciple needs to be disciplined, walk on the Way, remain in Truth, so as to enter into Life. Jesus said: "I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved" (John 10: 9). Do not allow heaven to spring surprises on you due to presumption or despair. But with faith, hope and charity, strive to live your life as a true disciple. 

   I pray as we journey in life today, we will not treat God's word of correction lightly and not be discouraged when God reprimands us. For the Lord corrects those He loves and chastizes everyone He accepts as a son or daughter (Heb. 12: 5-6). May our faith in Jesus and disciplined life of a true disciple gain us salvation. Have a happy and victory-full Sunday!