A Battle Against Nature And Our Own Will.

"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." 

Matthew 7:13

 The Narrow Gate.

I.

" Enter ye in at the nnrrow gate, for wide is the gate and broad the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there are who go in thereat."

The narrow way is that of labour and suffering. It is the path in which one must be humbled, that we may become great, and die that we may live. Each step there in is a battle against nature and our own will. It is rough and steep, but there is no other way to eternal life.

II.

"And few there be that find it." Our Lord seems to say these words sadly.

We forget that it requires a great effort to be a saint; but remember St. Paul's words, "I can do all things in Him that strengtheneth me."

We must struggle against self. Have patience and perseverance, and we shall go through that gate which is so low and narrow that none but little ones, that is, the humble, can pass it.

III.

"Not every one that saith to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doth the will of My Father."

Prayer without works is barren, nor will any works not according to the will of God be accepted by Him.

Always consult that adorable will, and give your preference to the employments that are uninteresting and painful. Follow Him who did on earth His Father's will, and offer Him in your communions the daily duties that you like the least.

Link (here) to Short Meditations : According to method of St. Ignatius for every day of the year 

by a Jesuit Father