Why did God make me? God made me to know Him, love Him and serve Him and to be happy with Him in heaven forever. (Baltimore Catechism)
But mankind is not an understanding people [they are unwise and sinful]; therefore their Maker shall not spare them, nor shall He who formed them have mercy on them…You shall be gleaned one by one… (Isaiah 27:11-12)
We begin on a wide road. (See the man and girl who are walking.) The road to the right has temptations. To the left you can see a deer and farther ahead is a cross. Follow the cross.
[Yet] God will guard the footsteps of his faithful ones, while the wicked shall perish in darkness…(Heaven and Hell exist) (1 Samuel 2:9) Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind… (Romans 12:2)
Seek God like the deer that yearns for the running stream. (Psalms 42 and 63).
To the left we see the Church. It beckons. There we receive sacraments which are strength for the Journey. But there are always roads leading away. Roads of lust and pride. Beware.
The Church is there to help…Jesus said, “Whatever sins you forgive, are forgiven…” (John 20:23) Be like the vine…stayed connected to the source…the branch can do nothing alone (John 15:4-6).
The road leads across mountains. It will take effort. (But don’t all good things require effort?) The road begins to narrow. We are following Jesus.
Love the One who loves us so!! (John 3:16) Seek the things that are above. (Colossians 3:1)
If you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. (Proverbs 2:1-11)
God has plans for you! (Jeremiah 29:11) Be patient. Serve His people. Follow the way of virtue. Be holy. The cardinal virtues are Temperance (moderation), Prudence (wisdom), Justice and Fortitude (courage). Live them.
The road narrows. Not many are with you now. But God reaches out to you. It is He who has walked with you and guided you. Now take His hand. Leave all sin behind.
For nothing unclean can enter the presence of God in heaven.