In today's Gospel acclamation we hear, "I
am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows Me will have the
light of life" (Jn. 8:12).
Jesus uses an image in Matthew's Gospel that is
common in the Old Testament; that of choosing between two divergent ways or
paths. The first is the way that leads to fulfillment and life versus the
second way, which leads to unhappiness and even destruction in our lives. The
Book of Psalms begins with an image of a person who has chosen to follow the
way of those who are wise and obedient to God's Word and who refuse to follow
the way of those who think and act contrary to God's ways. "Blessed is the
man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of
sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the Law of the
Lord, and on His Law he meditates day and night" (Ps. 1:1-2).
When a path diverges it creates a fork in the
road with each path leading to a different destination. This is especially true
when we encounter life's crossroads where we may make a choice that will effect
how we live our lives. It is important that we make the right decisions, ones
that will help us move towards the goal of loving our heavenly Father and
obeying and doing His will. Going through the narrow way by taking the right
path will lead us to the life God has called each one of us to fulfill.
As we reflect upon the Scriptures may we, like
those who have gone before us, allow God's love and wisdom to rule our hearts
so we can trust in His guidance and grace to follow the path of love and
holiness, which brings us life!