The Broad Road Leads to Destruction

Posted on June 26, 2025 by Father Joe

Matthew 7:13-14 urges us to enter through the narrow gate and that “the broad road leads to destruction.” Our Lord tells us that salvation demands struggle (taking up the cross to follow him) and that there are few who take the narrow gate into the kingdom. This summons to mind the somewhat comical door to the ground level bathroom in my rectory. It is a half-door, fondly called the “Hobbit” door to the toilet. It requires that anyone who is somewhat wide to squeeze into the room. Visitors have laughed about it but those of us who are on the large side find it disconcerting. While it may be unlikely, it is hard to shake the prospect of getting stuck. Indeed, it precipitated a story that I told parish friends. Preaching on how our salvation is not a private affair, I insisted that it had a communal or interpersonal dynamic. While we must each make our own choices, we can assist one another in making and keeping them. Sharing a mental image, I related imagining myself standing before the entry way to heaven. The door is open, but the opening is very small. Despite many efforts, I cannot squeeze through. Suddenly friends appear that I have known in life. Yes, this is a somewhat elaborate fantasy. Those already in heaven started to pull and pull, so that I might join them. Meanwhile, I am holding up the line. More friends start to push me from behind. While it might be a peculiar and comical image, I would offer it as a depiction for the communion of saints. Starting at the font when we come in the arms of parents and godparents, we never come to God alone. Intercession plays an essential role in our approach to the Lord and our life in the kingdom. Jesus establishes a “church” or community of faith. He gives us sacraments and one another. It might take a lot of pulling and pushing, but those who love the Lord will eventually get through that small door or narrow gate. Maybe the struggle at the entry itself is another indication of purgatory?

How many would give up and select the wider gate? Separated from others, one would be alone. Would there be any interest in taking the narrow gate to see God if love for him is lacking? Too many take the easy way out. Unfortunately, in the parable this route leads to destruction or hell.