THE WORD
2 Kgs 19,9-11.14-21.31-35.36 /Mt 7,6.12-14
Jesus said to his disciples, “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces. “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets. “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.”
IN OTHER WORDS
Dogs and pigs were loathsome animals in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament. Both animals were relegated among the degraded species of creation.
In verse 6 Jesus warns his apostles not to throw what is holy to the dogs and the pigs. What is holy refers to his teachings that he was handing on to his apostles (and eventually to all his followers).
Dogs and pigs refer to the Pharisees and scribes who always maligned with brazen malice whatever Jesus said and did. Jesus might as well be teaching us that when our human dignity is being trampled upon, as his opponents did to him, we have to stand up rmly as long as we are on “solid ground.”
In verse 12 Jesus states positively that we should do to others what we want others to do to us. This could be Jesus’ practical warning to his apostles and to us against pharisaical behavior.
In verses 13-14 Jesus tells us that those who want to follow him should “enter the narrow gate and walk the rough road.” No more, no less!
When Pope Francis was in the Philippines countless people walked many miles, stood long hours along the streets under the rain; multitudes passed the nights sleepless in the open air just to have a glimpse of the Holy Father. Thousands gave up their comfort when following where the Pope went to relish the Vicar of Christ’s captivating smile and blessing. And their sacrifices paid off ! In like manner, our lifetime striving to “enter the narrow gate and walk the rough road” is not only a glimpse of a fleeting view of a great personality but to gaze at a permanent beatific vision of the Triune God forever in heaven.
- Sr. Angelita Roferos, SSpS | CHS, Manila
The Word in other words 2016
An annual project of Logos Publications, The WORD in Other Words Bible Diary contains daily scripture readings and reflections written by priest, brothers, and sisters of the three congregations founded by St. Arnold Janssen (the SVD, SSpS, and SSpSAP). It hopes to serve as a daily companion to readers who continually seek the correlation of the Word of God and human experience.
