Tuesday June 22, 2021 - Twelfth week of Ordinary Time - I am the light of the world, says the Lord. Whoever follows me will have the light of life - Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 7, 6. 12-14

It is again a continuation of the teaching of Jesus on the mountain. Three ideas are relevant to this passage from the Gospel.

First, "Do not give the dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls at the pigs, lest they trample on them, then turn to tear you apart." What is sacred? Everything that has been made sacred by prayer, the teachings of Sacred Scripture and the kingdom of God. And who are not worthy of it? Those who persist in hypocrisy and oppose the new life proposed by Jesus. We must protect ourselves from these.

Then Jesus said "Whatever you would like others to do for you, do it for them, too". According to the ancients, reciprocal love guarantees good understanding. It is about love for the neighbor, which is easy to say, but its implementation is not so easy, because often it is selfishness that wins. This command of Jesus requires a firm choice and sustained efforts, far from the carelessness of the wide road and the great gate.

Finally, "Enter by the narrow gate. It is great, the gate, it is wide, the path that leads to perdition; and there are many, those who enter it. But it is narrow, the gate, it is narrow, the path which leads to life; and they are few who find it ". It is not easy to claim salvation and eternal life. Once again, firm decision and effective action is required, for the path to salvation does not coincide with the routine of this world. It is a wrong way, it is a whole other way that leads to the supreme reward of heaven.

Thank you, O God, for you made us in the image of Jesus Christ, your son, the firstborn of all men, and you have revealed to us the door of life. Give us, O Father, the grace to respond to your call to be faithful Christians. Amen.