Gospel: Matthew 7: 6: 12-14
In ancient cities narrow gates were the entrances for pilgrims or individual travelers. They were designed for one carrying few possessions - just the necessities of life. Any excess baggage would prevent entrance; it had to be left behind. The kingdom of heaven only has one narrow gate; it was not designed for caravans of huge possessions.
When we judge other people we carry around a lot of baggage that prevents us from entering the kingdom of heaven. We have to let it go; the Golden Rule Jesus provides is one tool with which to do that. Would we want to be judged by other people? No. Then why do we do so to other people? Considering this point can go a long way toward shedding the excess baggage of judgment against others.
The life of the Beatitudes - a life of poverty of spirit, meekness, mercy, peace making, and bearing persecution with joy - these enable us to not pick up any baggage in the first place. To be like Jesus who came to Thomas and Peter after they doubted and denied him; who called Judas his friend even at the moment of betrayal; who forgave those who put him to death - this is the Way, the narrow way into the kingdom of heaven.
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