The answer is: The gate is narrow and few find it

Matthew 7 vs 14

When Jesus speaks about the narrow gate and the difficult path leading to life, He’s peppering His message with a touch of daily life in ancient times. The “narrow gate” suggests that the journey to full life isn’t a breezy stroll but rather requires intention and effort. In a world full of distractions—much like ours—the call to focus and persevere can be hard to embrace.

Interestingly, during this time, cities often had regional gates, which were smaller than the main entrances and basically fit for foot travelers. People weren’t straying far from a bustling life filled with various choices. This imagery guides us to reflect on how the path to genuine living is not popular or wide but rather forged through sincere choices and hard truths. Remember, in another scripture, Jesus contrasts the easy path “leading to destruction” with the narrow one, enhancing the idea that the often-taken route doesn’t necessarily lead to fulfillment.

Throughout wisdom literature, you’ll notice whispers of this narrow approach. For instance, Proverbs resonates with its societal value in recognizing good conduct over recklessness. This theme reflects an age-old pursuit—echoing the countless philosophers and seekers through time who have claimed that true enlightenment and soulful living take legwork and introspection. So, as many seek vast comforts, Jesus calls His followers to a life of challenge, integrity, and commitments—a genuine adventure down a carefully chosen path.