Etienne de Grellet, a Quaker missionary (1773-1855) is credited with having first uttered the words: I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.
Many centuries before, Jesus urged his followers: Strive to enter by the narrow gate (Lk 13:24). The image of gates used to enter the pens of sheep and other livestock would have been well known to those who heard these words. They would easily have been able to identify with such an image, but even in our times, people still have difficulty understanding this advice as it appears in the sacred writings, and how it should be applied.
Perhaps it might help to think of Jesus' advice in terms of the Quaker wisdom that was shared many centuries later. Striving to enter by the narrow gate simply means trying our best each day to do good for others. Be on the lookout today for opportunities to do good things for others, to bring them some measure of happiness. Don't delay if you don't have to; remember that we shall not pass this way again.
Have a great day.
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