The Narrow Gate and Farmer Brown's Garden

"Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. (Mat 7:13-14)

Peter Rabbit was a naughty boy who got himself in trouble feasting on the delights of Farmer Brown's garden. He had great trouble finding, and then getting safely to, the narrow gate that he knew would lead to safety.

Fortunately for Peter, he found his way to the narrow gate and was able to escape to safety. But I'm sure there were many rabbits that didn't make it to through that narrow gate alive. (In the picture, Farmer Brown with his rake is pursuing Peter, trying to catch him before he makes it through the narrow gate.)

Most, if not all of us have found ourselves caught up in the things of the world at one time or another. While that in itself is a problem, the far greater danger is that the the things of the world can mesmerize us into spiritual oblivion. Once immersed in the things of the world, we may never find our way out of its garden of delights, and may not find our way back to that narrow gate.

By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward. (Heb 11:24-26)

Moses felt that bearing the suffering and shame of Christ was a greater treasure than enjoying the fame, fortune, power, and luxuries of all Egypt.

Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach. For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. (Heb 13:13-14)

We are foreigners behind enemy lines here on earth in this life. We are seeking a kingdom yet to come. In the mean time we are God's Resistance movement, if you will. On the other side of the narrow gate can be suffering and shame for a season, but it ultimately leads to safety and glory that far exceeds the enticements of Farmer Brown's garden.

Yours in Him,
Pastor B.