Two Roads

By Ed Witlif

"Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it" (Matthew 7:13-14 NASB).
     Picture two gates opening onto two roads. One gate is wide and the road beyond is smooth, straight, and flat. There is a brightly-flashing neon sign above it beckoning, "Take Me! The Way is Easy and Pleasant."
     The other gate is narrow, and the road beyond isn't paved. There are steep hills to climb with deep, dark valleys to go through. The plain sign above that gate reads, "Though the Way is Rough, the Destination is Worth the Effort."
     Some who take the narrow path are beguiled by the brilliantly lit, wide, smooth road running alongside, so they switch roads. Others on the wide road learn of the destination to which the narrow road leads; they go back so that they can enter through the narrow gate.
     The narrow gate (door) is Jesus (John 10:7), and He is the Way (John 14:6). Jesus doesn’t promise a smooth way. He speaks of persecution, loss of family, and suffering. He does promise that He is with us all the Way and there will be joy, praise, and glory at the end.
     The question is, which road are you traveling? Are you on the narrow way, or have you wandered onto the easier way? Make a course correction if needed. Then fix your eyes on Jesus and do not look away from your true Guide.

- Ed Wittlif is from Denver, CO; via the Church of Christ in Justin, TX. Joe Slater serves as minister and he may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com