Homily Preparation

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time — August 24, 2025

“Strive to enter through the narrow gate.” (Luke 13:24)

Isaiah 66:18–21

God will gather people “from all nations and tongues.”
Even foreigners are called to be priests and Levites — God’s salvation is radically inclusive.

Hebrews 12:5–7, 11–13

Luke 13:22–30

The “narrow gate” is discipleship — surrendering pride and false securities.
Many will claim familiarity with Christ (“we ate and drank with you”) but not truly follow Him.
The Kingdom is both inclusive (all nations) and exclusive (requires real conversion).

Core Message:
The narrow gate is not about God’s stinginess, but our need for humility and faithfulness. God desires all to be saved, but the path is walked in trust and obedience.
Church Fathers / Tradition:
- St. Augustine: “God created us without us, but He did not will to save us without us.”
- St. John Chrysostom: entering the Kingdom requires struggle and effort.
Magisterium / Pope / Bishop / Pastor Notes (examples):
- Pope Francis often warns against “lukewarm Christianity” — knowing Jesus socially but not living as His disciple.
- Local bishop/pastor may highlight evangelization efforts or parish renewal as ways of “opening the narrow gate” to our community.
Possible Current Event Connection:
- Discipline and perseverance: sports/athletics (ties well with Hebrews’ imagery of training).
- Social media “following” vs. real discipleship: many “like” Jesus but do not walk with Him.

Family Reflection & Lector Resource → available at [OCCatholic.org] under Family Preparation and Lector Preparation.
OCChristian.org → broad ecumenical reflections for all churches in Orange County, encouraging families to pray the psalm togetther or personally.
ThisSideOfOrange.com → presenting truth, beauty, and goodness in culture, science, and the arts, drawn from the weekly theme but without explicit religious reference — a bridge for seekers.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse