Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13-14
“Choose for yourselves those in the people of God whom you would imitate. Because if you decide to imitate the majority, you will not find yourselves among the few who walk along the narrow road.”
Augustine of Hippo (354-430) in Sermon 224: “On The Octave of Easter.” This excerpt comes from a sermon Augustine preached to new converts the Sunday after Easter.
Consider the gravity of his message. Many people in church are taking the wide road to navigate life. They think they can be a Christian and conform to the patterns in this world. Nothing could be further from the truth!
In the wake of Easter, ask God to help you discern if your generosity looks like the world or looks distinctly Christian. What would the narrow road of Christian generosity look like?
Statistics show that the majority of so-called Christians in America today store up wealth on earth just like the world instead of serving as a conduit of blessing. They have rationalized partial obedience which is complete disobedience.
With Augustine, I would urge them instead to take the narrow road marked by obedience. But, be warned! Many among the people of God will distance themselves from you for your obedience reminds them of their own disobedience.
Don’t worry what others think of you and your generosity in light of Easter. Just care about what the risen Christ told you to do. Remember that He’s watching what you do and has promised to look after you.