Matthew 7:13-14

In the rich history of golf, there is a fascinating story concerning the naming of the area on which the game was played. Two gentlemen were contemplating how to advance a round object towards a beautiful green. As they discussed their strategy, one of them suggested striking the ball in a certain direction, which appeared to be a fair way to reach the green. And so, the term "fairway" was born, symbolizing the path that seemed most fair and direct towards the ultimate goal.

According to both history and legend, these fairways were closely cropped due to the grazing of sheep and goats. This made the grass less inhibiting for golfers, allowing them to strike the ball more easily with their curved sticks. However, it also meant that there could be occasional wayward deposits on the fairway, obscuring the "fair" part of its name. Nevertheless, the fairway became the route that made the most sense and offered the greatest possibility of reward for well-executed shots, despite its challenges.

Today, the fairways in modern golf are much different from those of old. They are broad expanses of well-manicured grass, far different from the thin strips that once lay between the mounds and hills of the Scottish countryside. While hitting the fairway today may be less physically demanding, the demand to live life strongly and well for the Lord Jesus remains unchanged. The path of true life, the "fair" way, still requires discipline and commitment from us.

In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus teaches us about the importance of choosing the right path in life: "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and few find it." Jesus sacrificed Himself to show us the fairway, the narrow path that leads to life. He is the gate that opens the way to eternal life, and following Him requires strong discipline and unwavering commitment.

Reflection Question: As you consider the concept of the fairway in golf and the narrow path in life, think about the choices you make each day. How often do you choose the easy and wide path that leads to destruction, rather than the narrow and challenging path that leads to life? What are some areas in your life where you can exercise greater discipline and commitment to follow Jesus more closely? Take a moment to reflect on your choices and ask God for the strength and guidance to walk the narrow path, knowing that it leads to the ultimate reward of eternal life with Him.