What is the story of a famous person who rose from poverty and achieved success?

Jean-Marie Valheur

I’ve always loved the story of a man named Henry Sy. Born in Xiamen, China, Sy was poor as dirt. His father, his mother, his siblings, all of them could barely survive the next day. So his father took a gamble and moved the family to the Philippines. It was the 1930s, and Henry had to make ends meet in a strange country where he did not speak the language.

For the first years of his young working life, little Henry worked as a shoeshiner, polishing the boots of “his betters” until they shone brightly. The money he made with this, he saved up. Whenever he tried to get customers in front of Mercury’s Drugstore, however, the owner would shoo him away. Undeterred, Henry would find another spot, and continue his work.

As the years went on, Henry kept working hard, living frugally. He saved up his money, and invested it wisely, step by step growing his fortune along the way. Soon, he owned a store, next, a chain of stores, and eventually, he owned an entire mall. In the end, his chain of malls would dominate the entire Philippines. Henry Sy became the countries richest citizen, by far…

…and in none of these stores, there would ever be a Mercury Drugstore. Watson’s, sure, other pharmacies were allowed. But not Mercury. Because they didn’t let little Henry shine shoes in front of them when he was a wee lad.

Hommage, Reverence and Respect

June 30, 2023 Friday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time Readings for Today First Martyrs of the Church of Rome—Optional Memorial

Video When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And then a leper approached, did him homage, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” Matthew 8:1–4 To do homage to another is to publicly express reverence and respect. This is what this leper did to Jesus. He “did him homage.” But the leper went even further. He also expressed his certain faith that Jesus could cure him if He wished to do so. And Jesus did desire this. Jesus stretched out His hand to touch the leper and pronounced the words, “I will do it. Be made clean.” And with that, the leper was cleansed. The first thing to note in this passage is that Jesus “touched” the leper. This was a forbidden practice, since lepers were unclean, and touching them could spread their disease. But Jesus broke the norm and touched the man, revealing to him his innate dignity. It’s interesting to consider the question: Who paid whom a greater act of homage? Was the act of homage shown by the leper greater? Or the act of touching and cleansing the leper greater? Though we need not compare these two acts, it is helpful to reflect upon the profound fact that Jesus did show a form of homage to this unclean leper. As was said above, to do homage to another is to publicly express reverence and respect to them. Without a doubt, Jesus did just this. He not only honored the leper by His touch and healing, but He publicly expressed His love and respect for this man through this act. Of course, the homage we owe to God is unique. It is the homage of worship. We must bow down before Him, surrendering our lives in total abandonment and trust. We must honor Him as God and express our love accordingly. But, in addition to Jesus showing His almighty power by this miracle, He also sets for us an example of how we must treat others. Every person, because they are made in the image and likeness of God, deserves our utmost respect, and they deserve to receive that respect in a public way. We must continually seek to honor and respect others and express that honor and respect for others to see. This is especially difficult when the person we are called to show respect for is considered by others as “unclean.” The leper is only a symbol of the many types of people whom the world considers unclean and unworthy. Criminals, the poor, the confused, the sinner, the homeless, the political opponent and every other person in our world deserves our utmost respect and reverence. Doing so does not justify their sin; rather, it cuts through the surface and looks at their innate dignity. Reflect, today, upon the act of homage done by this leper to Jesus. And then reflect upon the act of homage Jesus offers this leper by publicly confirming his innate dignity. Who in your life is represented by this leper? Who is “unclean” because of the condition of their life, the sin they commit, or the public stigma they have? Whom is God calling you to reach out and touch with love and respect, for others to see? Seek out the leper in your life and do not be afraid to imitate this holy act of homage exemplified by our Lord. My holy Lord, You are worthy of all adoration, glory and homage. You and You alone deserve our worship. Help me to continually discover Your hidden presence in the lives of those around me. Help me, especially, to see You in the leper of our day. May my love and respect for them flow from my love for You and become an imitation of Your act of love for all. Jesus, I trust in You.

Pillars of the Church

Thursday, June 29, 2023 Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles Readings for Today

Video “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:17–19 Saints Peter and Paul are often referred to as two of the great “Pillars of the Church.” They each played an incredibly essential role in the establishment of the early Church. And though each of their roles was essential and foundational, their roles were as different as they were different as persons. Peter was a family man, a local fisherman, uneducated and quite ordinary. From what we know about him prior to being called by Jesus, there was nothing that made him uniquely qualified to become one of the pillars of the new Church to be established by the Son of God. Jesus simply called him, and he responded. Jesus got into Peter’s boat, ordered him to lower the nets, and produced a huge catch of fish. When Peter saw this miracle, he fell down at Jesus’ feet and acknowledged that he was “a sinful man” who was unworthy of being in Jesus’ presence (See Luke 5:8). But Jesus informed Peter that he would from now on be catching men. Peter immediately left everything behind and followed Jesus. Paul describes himself as “a Jew, born at Tarsus in Cili′cia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gama′li-el, educated according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as you all are this day” (Acts 22:3). Paul was well educated in the strictest interpretation of the Jewish law, understood philosophy and was quite zealous as a young man. Recall, also, that prior to becoming a convert to Christianity, he “persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it” (Galatians 1:13). In many ways, Paul would have been seen as the most unlikely person to be chosen to be a pillar of the Church, because he so vigorously opposed it at first. He even supported the killing of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. Though each of these men would have been considered by many as very unlikely founders of the Christian Church, this is exactly what they became. Paul, after his conversion, traveled far and wide to preach the Gospel, founding several new Churches throughout Asia Minor and Europe. Eventually he was arrested in Jerusalem, brought to Rome for trial and was beheaded. Over half of the New Testament books are attributed to Paul and half of the Acts of the Apostles detail Paul’s missionary journeys. Paul is especially known for his missionary activity to the Gentiles, those who were not Jews. Peter’s role was truly a unique one. His name was changed from “Simon” to “Peter” by Jesus. Recall Jesus saying, “And I tell you, you are Peter (Petros), and on this rock (petra) I will build my church…(Matthew 16:18). “Peter” in Greek is Petros, meaning a single stone that is movable. However, the Greek word petra means a rock as a solid formation that is fixed, immovable, and enduring. Therefore, Jesus chose to make Peter, this single stone, into a solid foundation of immovable rock on which the Church was to be built. You, too, have been called by our Lord to a unique mission within the Church that has not been entrusted to another. In your own way, God wants to use you to reach certain people with the Gospel as He did with Saint Paul. And like Saint Peter, God wants to continue to establish His Church upon you and your faith. Reflect, today, upon these two holy and unique pillars of our Church. As you do, ponder how God may want to use you to continue their mission in this world. Though Saints Peter and Paul are among the greatest and most consequential Christians within our world, their mission must continue, and you are among the instruments that God wants to use. Commit yourself to this mission so that the preaching of the Gospel and the rock foundation of our Church will remain strong within our day and age just as it was of old. Saint Peter, you were uniquely chosen to be a rock foundation of faith upon which the Church was established. Saint Paul, you went forth to preach this faith far and wide, establishing many new communities of faith. Please use me, dear Lord, to continue the mission of Your Church so that the faith may be firmly planted in the minds and hearts of all Your people throughout the world. Jesus, I trust in You.

Good Fruit—Bad Fruit

June 28, 2023 Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time Readings for Today Saint Irenaeus, Bishop and Martyr—Memorial

Video “Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit.” Matthew 7:16–17 “So by their fruits you will know them.” This is how our Gospel passage for today concludes. It offers us an exceptionally practical way by which you can discern the working of God in your own life and in the life of others. When you look at your own life, what good fruit, born for the upbuilding of the Kingdom of God, do you see? Some people may find little to no fruit born, either for good or bad. Such complacency is, in and of itself, bad fruit. Other people may see an abundance of fruit, thus producing many consequences in this world. They influence the lives of many, and their public actions make a true difference. Sometimes for good...and other times for evil. When discerning the actions of God in our world, we must first be very objective. The evil one is always very deceptive and regularly presents his bad fruit as good. For example, the legalization of abortion is often presented by many within our world as a “right to choose” or a “health service.” But the intentional death of any unborn child is clearly “bad fruit” from a “rotten tree.” There are even many so-called “humanitarian groups” or very wealthy “philanthropists” who present their work as “good fruit,” when it is anything but good. And on the contrary, there are many who work hard to bring forth a greater respect for life from the moment of conception to natural death, or strive to uphold the sacredness of marriage as God designed it, or work to promote the freedom to worship in accord with the will of God, but are labeled by the secular world as prejudiced, bigoted, fearmongers and even hateful. But their work, done very sacrificially, truly does bear good fruit for the Kingdom of God. How about your own life? When you examine your actions and the fruit born of those actions, from where does that fruit originate? Does it come from a false sense of compassion, a misguided “charity,” and a fear of being criticized for standing for the truth? Or does it come from a deep love of God, an awareness of the truth God has revealed to us, and through a courageous proclamation of the pure Gospel? Good fruit, born from the heart of the Father in Heaven, will always mirror the truths of our faith. A false sense of compassion, false accusations, persecutions and the like will flow from the rotten trees in our world. We must work diligently to be those good trees that bear the good fruit coming from God. This requires a radical commitment to do what is right in the face of the evil all around us. Reflect, today, upon these images Jesus presents. Do you see clearly both the good and bad fruit around you? Is your life helping to foster the lies of the evil one or the truth and love of God? Look at the fruit your life bears, as well as the fruit within our world, in an objective way, comparing it to the clear and unambiguous teachings of Jesus. Seek out that good fruit with all your heart and do all you can to bring it forth, no matter the cost, and you will not only save your soul, you will also help feed others with the good fruit of Heaven. My Lord of all truthfulness, You and You alone define the good and evil in our world. Your truth reveals the good fruit that is born to nourish the growth of Your glorious Kingdom. Give me courage and clarity of mind and heart so that I may continually do all that You call me to do so as to bring the good fruit of the Kingdom to all in need. Jesus, I trust in You.

Water, Acidic, Light – 3 Things You Should Do in The Morning For Gut Health, Energy, Lymphatic Health, Immunity & More

A healthy morning routine sets the tone for the rest of the day. Incorporating specific practices can provide significant benefits to our overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the advantages of starting the day with hydration infused with an acidic element, such as lemon, lime, or apple cider vinegar. Additionally, we will delve into the benefits of exposure to sunlight or red light therapy to synchronize our circadian rhythm. Lastly, we will discuss how these practices, when combined with movement, can enhance our immune system, energy levels, circadian rhythm, and lymphatic system.

Hydration with an Acidic Element for Gut Health

Water is essential for maintaining hydration, especially after a night of sleep when our bodies can become dehydrated. Infusing water with an acidic element like lemon, lime, or apple cider vinegar can offer additional advantages. These acidic elements provide a dose of beneficial compounds such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Lemon and lime are rich in vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties and ability to support collagen production. Apple cider vinegar, with its acetic acid content, may aid digestion and promote a healthy gut environment. The combination of hydration and these acidic elements can kickstart the digestive system, supporting gut health and overall well-being.

This is an important first and second step in the morning. While you’re sleeping your body is dehydrated. Water with an acidic element in the morning gets your gut health stimulated. Digestive juices, acids, bile and more are a by-product of an acidic element with water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach… even before your coffee!

Synchronizing Circadian Rhythm Through Sunlight or Red Light Therapy

The circadian rhythm is our internal biological clock, regulating various physiological processes, including sleep-wake cycles, hormone production, and metabolism. Exposure to sunlight or red light therapy in the morning can help align our circadian rhythm and promote optimal functioning throughout the day.

Sunlight exposure triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and well-being. It also stimulates the production of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Sunlight exposure early in the day helps suppress melatonin, the hormone responsible for inducing sleep, thus improving alertness and mental clarity.

Alternatively, red light therapy, which involves exposure to specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light, can mimic the effects of natural sunlight. This therapy stimulates cellular energy production and enhances mitochondrial function, leading to increased ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production and improved cellular health. Red light therapy has been shown to improve sleep quality, boost mood, and support overall well-being.

The Synergy of Hydration, Sunlight, and Movement

Combining hydration with an acidic element, exposure to sunlight or red light therapy, and movement can create a powerful synergy for our health. When we hydrate with acidic water in the morning, we activate our digestive system and provide our body with essential nutrients. Sunlight or red light therapy assists in regulating our circadian rhythm, promoting wakefulness and enhancing overall mood and energy levels. Engaging in movement, whether it’s gentle stretching, yoga, or a brisk walk, stimulates the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of toxins and promoting a healthy immune response.

Incorporating a morning routine that includes hydrating with acidic water, exposure to sunlight or red light therapy, and movement can have a profound impact on our overall well-being. By supporting gut health, synchronizing our circadian rhythm, and enhancing immune function and energy levels, we set ourselves up for a productive and vibrant day. Embrace this powerful morning ritual and experience the transformative effects it can bring to your life.

Keep this in mind, this routine works well for sleep, energy levels, mitochondrial health, atp production, lymphatic health and so much more.

Optimal Health Morning Routine:

1. Drink water with apple cider vinegar, lime, or lemon (something acidic)
2. Get as much of your skin exposed to sunlight or a red light therapy device to tell your body it’s daytime!
3. Move your body! Go for a walk, a little jog, a bike ride, go for a swim. Something to circulate the body & lymph!

https://greenlivingtribe.com/water-acidic-light-3-things-should-do-morning/

Add These 8 Foods to Your Diet for Improved Prostate Health

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Prostate cancer is the most common of all cancers affecting American men, according to 2022 statistics from the American Cancer Society.

The Society estimates that about 268,490 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed by the end of this year, and about 34,500 deaths will be attributed to prostate cancer.

In total, about 1 in 8 men in the United States will be diagnosed with this potentially deadly disease. Certain men are more at risk than others, including older men and non-Hispanic black men.

The Society adds that 6 cases in 10 are diagnosed in men 65 and older.

The disease is not often diagnosed in men under the age of 40, and the average diagnosis is about 66.

Currently, more than three million people in the United States are still alive after having been diagnosed with some form of prostate cancer.

The bad news is that prostate cancer is a serious threat. The good news is there are plenty of things you can do to reduce your risk, starting with the addition of these foods to your diet.

The Top Eight Foods for Prostate Health

The prostate is a small gland located beneath your bladder, whose function is to transport urine from the bladder out of the penis.

The following foods help the prostate do its job in many different, unique ways, allowing for better urine flow throughout the male reproductive and waste disposal system.

1. Turmeric-

A golden brown spice typically found in Indian and other cuisines, turmeric is packed with anti-inflammatory properties.

One of the most specific functions of this spice for prostate health is to reduce levels of PSA, or prostate-specific antigens.

Prostate-specific antigens are proteins produced in both normal and malignant cells of the male prostate gland.

“Turmeric and other anti-inflammatory foods could reduce the levels of prostate-specific antigens (PSA),” said Dr. Brad Gill of the Cleveland Clinic about the well known spice.

A rapid rise in PSA levels often indicates the potential development of prostate cancer, which is why it’s important to get your levels checked whenever possible.

I personally recommend Omica Organics turmeric powder for several reasons. First, they have powder, capsules, and liquid tincture turmeric. Their turmeric is biodynamically grown, this means that they are higher quality than organic. I also know the founder personally and they do extensive heavy metal testing to ensure the lowest PPM (parts per million) rates of heavy metals. That is why I trust turmeric from Omica Organics more than any other brand. You can use the discount code VFDF7M for 10% off your order. Click here to visit. 

2. Tomatoes-

Studies have shown that tomatoes and tomato products contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that could reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Tomatoes produce more lycopene when cooked, so be sure to add more organic tomato sauce to your diet, especially during winter and autumn.

3. Broccoli-

Evidence shows that cruciferous vegetables including broccoli can lower prostate cancer risk.

Researchers have theorized that some chemicals in these vegetables including sulforaphane have concentrated amounts of substances that target and kill cancer cells while leaving regular prostate cancer cells alone.

Broccoli sprouts are also rich in this compound, and are easier to consume than broccoli because they can be eaten quickly or added to salads.

Prevent an Enlarged Prostate With This 14-in-1 Simple Formula To Keep Your Prostate Healthy (Click Here To Read)

4. Brussel Sprouts-

Another member of the cruciferous vegetable family, Brussels sprouts may help to stop prostate cancer progression, according to a study of over 1,000 patients.

Other cruciferous vegetables include cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and kale.

5. Legumes-

A food group that includes beans, peanuts and lentils, legumes contain substances that are capable of inhibiting or destroying cancer cells.

Researchers have theorized that the effects of legumes on prostate cancer cells may come from these foods’ abilities to affect hormone regulation and cell death.

When consuming these foods, eat in moderation, because beans have antinutrients called phytic acids and peanuts may have a mold-like toxin called aflatoxin.

Lentils are generally a healthier choice, as are organic versions of these foods.

6. Pomegranate and Pomegranate Juice-

Pomegranate is not widely consumed in the United States in comparison with other fruits, but it is packed with prostate healing and cancer-fighting compounds.

They don’t call it ‘The Queen of Fruits’ for no reason.

According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, pomegranate juice and some of its bioactive components may help to inhibit the proliferation of prostate cancer cells.

Pomegranates are also packed with health-promoting and disease-preventing antioxidants.

Like green tea, pomegranates are a rich source of antioxidants, making them one of the best foods for promoting prostate health.

Prevent an Enlarged Prostate With This 14-in-1 Simple Formula To Keep Your Prostate Healthy (Click Here To Read) 

7. Wild Caught Fish-

The standard U.S. diet is typically deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids, a problem considering how many Omega-6s our diets contain because of vegetable oils like canola.

When this ratio is out of balance, several health problems may result.

Some research has shown that maintaining a healthy balance between these two fatty acids can help to lower risk of high-grade prostate cancer as well as prostate cancer morality, according to a report from Healthline.com.

Wild caught fish is generally much healthier than farm-raised, because it is typically free from chemicals, genetically modified feed, and the stagnancy that is found in the pools of water the fish are raised in.
Look for wild caught fish whenever possible, and pay attention to the country, lake, or ocean of origin to make sure you purchase a product that is sourced from a healthy environment.

8. Avocados-

These fruits are one of the best plant-based foods to prevent and heal an enlarged prostate gland in the male body.

Eating just one avocado per day can help reduce symptoms associated with BPH, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Another study found that the lutein in avocados, a compound known by most people for supporting eye health, can help to reduce the growth of prostate cancer by up to 25 percent according to recent laboratory tests.

Some doctors recommend eating avocados together with tomatoes, similar to the recipe for guacamole, because these two foods are both rich in prostate-healing substances.

Final Thoughts on the Top Prostate Healing Foods

Many of these foods are simple and commonly found in grocery stores, but are not eaten nearly enough by men, especially as they get older. The majority are also plant based and red or green colored. When in doubt, always buy organic versions of these foods. Organic is always going to be a step up in quality.

Your prostate health, and your health in general, deserve it.

https://greenlivingtribe.com/add-these-8-foods-to-your-diet-for-improved-prostate-health/

Stop Eating Baby Carrots For These Two Unhealthy And Inedible Reasons

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Carrots are a good source of vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and a strong immune system. They also contain Vitamin K, potassium, antioxidants such as beta-carotene and high in fiber which can help with digestion and maintaining a healthy weight. Carrots also have been known to have anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, including carrots, may also help to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Unfortunately large carrots that grow in the soil are not the same as baby carrots. Baby carrots are more of a processed product.

Full-sized carrots are grown and pulled out of the dirt, rinsed and sold. This maintains their nutritional value such as vitamin A and Beta Carotene. Baby carrots however are not the same.

How Are Baby Carrots Different Than Full Size Carrots?

Baby carrots are made by cutting full-sized carrots into smaller, uniform pieces that are shaped like miniature versions of adult carrots. These smaller carrots are then peeled and polished to give them a smooth, uniform appearance. The process of making baby carrots often involves the use of machines that are designed to cut, shape, and polish the carrots quickly and efficiently. Some baby carrots may also be treated with chlorine or other chemical solutions to help preserve their freshness and extend their shelf life.

The vitamin content of carrots can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the variety of carrot, the soil in which they are grown, and the method of storage. Both types of carrots are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, antioxidants, and fiber.

However, the process of creating baby carrots does involve some loss of nutrients, as the outer layers of the carrot are removed during peeling and shaping.

The combination of chlorinating these carrots as well as the nutrition loss causes a far less valuable carrot.

Next time you’re at the store, grab the full sized carrot. This is going to give your body more beta-carotene, more vitamin A and less chlorine.

How Does Chlorine Harm Your Health?

Chlorine is a chemical commonly used as a disinfectant in water treatment plants to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause disease. While chlorine is effective at killing these harmful organisms, it can also have negative effects on human health. This is why I do not swim in chlorinated pools personally.

One potential risk associated with chlorine is the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) when chlorine reacts with organic matter present in water. Long-term exposure to these DBPs can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as bladder cancer, as well as other health problems like reproductive and developmental issues.

Another risk is that chlorine can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, this is particularly true for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or emphysema.

It’s also worth mentioning that chlorine can strip the natural oils and bacteria that are beneficial for the skin and hair, leaving them dry and itchy.

https://greenlivingtribe.com/stop-eating-baby-carrots-for-these-two-unhealthy-and-inedible-reasons/?fbclid=IwAR2NpcwQdKSGsvMp0MXkmuKsuD0vBLhkLmvSGGd2o1EbBlNVq7h-GkGQv-c

The Narrow Gate

June 27, 2023 Tuesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time Readings for Today Saint Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop and Doctor—Optional Memorial

Video “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.” Matthew 7:13–14 Is fear helpful? That depends. It depends upon which form of fear we are speaking of. First, there is a form of fear that is contrary to faith. It’s a fear that leads us to doubt and even despair. It’s a fear that results from the attack of the evil one and others who may sin against us. This form of fear is unhealthy and must be overcome through a faith that turns to our Lord with the utmost confidence and hope. But there is also a holy fear that is most useful and one of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. Recall the Proverb that says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…” (Proverbs 9:10). At a minimal level, this holy fear makes you aware of your sins and the consequences of those sins, especially serious sin. And this holy fear leads you to fear the punishment that results from sin, leading you to avoid serious sin. But the ideal form of “fear of the Lord” we must strive for is “filial fear,” which is the holy fear of a son or daughter of God. This fear is one that is grounded in a profound love of God and leaves you so filled with a wonder and awe of the glory, goodness and majesty of God that you are filled with a desire to please Him and give Him great glory with your life. Thus, this “fear” leads you to a desire to avoid even the smallest of sin, because, in your love of God, you not only want to avoid offending Him, you also want to honor Him to the greatest extent possible. The Scripture passage above should lead us to, at a minimum, a fear of not entering the gate to the “road that leads to life.” It is useful to consider Jesus’ teaching in a very straightforward way. Jesus essentially says that it is quite easy to walk through the gate that is “wide” and down the road that is “broad” in this life. In other words, it’s exceptionally easy to embrace a life of sin and head toward “destruction.” Jesus further says that those who walk through this wide gate and down this broad road are “many.” This fact should be the cause of our honest daily examination. If this broad road is so easy, then we should honestly admit that we can easily find ourselves walking it. The “narrow gate” and the “constricted” road are found and walked by only a “few,” according to Jesus’ words. Again, we should take notice of this and take it seriously. Jesus would not say this if it were not true. Therefore, if the gift of the fear of the Lord is alive in your life, and if you truly are a son or daughter of God, then you will daily strive to be one of those “few” who find this narrow way to holiness. And, ideally, you will do so out of your love for God and your desire to give Him the greatest glory you can. Reflect, today, upon this challenging teaching of our Lord. Take Him at His word and evaluate your life in light of this teaching. What are you doing in life to be certain that you are one of those few who have begun to walk through this narrow gate? Does your love for God leave you with such a wonder and awe of the greatness of God that your deepest desire is to not only please Him but to glorify Him fully with your actions? Strive to enter the narrow gate and the constricted road and do not turn back. Though this requires much determination, sacrifice and love, the goal and end of the road are worth it. My most magnificent Lord, You and You alone are worthy of all glory, honor and praise. May everything I do in life lead to Your glory and may I avoid everything that harms my relationship with You. I love You, dear Lord. Help me to love You and glorify You with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.