We learned that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line in Mrs. Parks seventh grade math class. And for years as a motorcycle rider, I had trouble with the scripture of Matthew 7:13-14, for much of my riding, although between two points, is not always the shortest distance. I can turn a 20 mile commute into a 45 mile back road journey. I love curves, isn't that why God created motorcycles? But Jesus talks about the straight and narrow, and to be careful not to stray. Good advice on any road, including the road of life, riding or not. So I would skip over it when reading, as if it were personally meant for me to not enjoy curves. Sort of an old wife's tale I made up, or an urban legend no one cared about but me. Superstitious-maybe. And although Jesus said it, which makes it true, I used my own select theology when I came to these two verses.
While studying one day, I read a commentary that the word was originally strait, not straight as we use the word today. Both have similar meaning, but in the King James of the 1600's, this was the word used. It meant a tight fit, or a path that may be hard to navigate due to its size, or confining, hence it is a "strait" jacket, not a "straight" jacket. And as you can see, both meanings can be applicable here, but I tend to lean on strait, allowing my mind and conscience to be free when I ride roads like the Snake. Or any road that allows me to use all the tread on the tires.
Now Jesus knew a few things about roads, he spent most of His time on the road. He had no home, so He was a true traveler. And I notice today, that many of the Christians I admire for their ministry and walk with Christ do so outside of the four church walls. Not to say pastors are not important, or don't do God's work, but the pastors I know who venture outside of the pulpit, via writing, visiting, teaching and following Christ's example, find an additional freedom in the spirit-doing what Jesus did, and advised. And as an example to their flocks-and this is their true witness. And also an encouragement for us to get out among the lost.
Sadly some only get out within their own denomination via seminars or conferences, not seeing how God is working in others. Keeping within a party line-staying safe within the lines. This is where they may become strait and narrow-confined and legalistic. But Christians who operate in the spirit go anywhere God leads them. Which is why we see Mother Theresa in hospitals in India, when she could go on a book tour. Or Franklin Graham with Samaritan's Purse, who could rest on his dad's reputation. I see our Pastor Ray out among the people, when he could easily defend staying home because his flock is so big. It takes courage to walk the strait road, and you need Jesus to guide you.
God explained to me once the reason that the path and gate are straight and narrow is that the straightest way to Him is direct-a straight line. Narrow, so you cannot do it without Him. Straight, so that nothing gets between you and Him-the shortest distance. Only God wants no interference in His relationship with you. But it can also be strait and narrow-confining and rough, like some roads I travel on. And you need Him even more. Stay in the spirit, avoid legalism. Make it personal. And there again, Jesus is with you. Helping you navigate, so that you see that the only way is Him. One way with Jesus the old bumper stickers say, and it is still true today.
Those who walk with God do not avoid the company of other people. In fact they look for others to share the gospel and love of Jesus with. Don't keep that light of yours under a basket. Get out and let it shine. Talk with sinners-just don't be one. Weep with those that weep, just like Jesus did. But stay on the course He has for you. And if like mine, it is strait, I know my God will take me through to where He wants me to be. And if it is straight, like the freeway, I choose to ride with Him too. Free from fear, for I know that He rides with me. And I now enjoy all the curves I can handle-not confined by legalism, but riding free in the spirit. Just like He promised. And if the road you happen to be on is rough, you probably are on the right road. Stay the course with Jesus. He'll get you where you are going.
Strait or straight, the difference one little letter, G can make. And the difference that G, as in God will make in your life when you follow Him. Be one of the few that find Him-and when you come to a fork in the road take it. Bring on the curves Lord, we have a lot of riding yet to do! Use all of the tire on your bike, not just the middle of them! Strait-and straight! Good advice on life from the one who is the way, the truth, and the life. And a road you won't find on any GPS-only in the spirit!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogpsot.com