Come On In!

Many years ago as children, we would play outside for hours. There was so much to do and see outside, that to be forced to remain indoors seemed a form of punishment. But, there were some days when inside felt like a safe place.  When the neighborhood bully was on the rampage, or if it turned cold or rainy, we would want to go inside and play. Often on those days, for whatever reason, my mother would lock the door so we couldn't run in and out.

This memory bubbled up when I read verse Revelation 3:8. "See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut..."  As an adult who had come to recognize Jesus as my Savior and my friend, this open door was key. Just the thought that I am always welcome; expected even, bring comfort; and that the door to Jesus' heart never closes.

I know now my mom's patience had exhausted and she tired of us running in and out, tracking her clean floors with mud. At the time, I thought I was missing out. I feared there might be something going on that I needed to know about.

As I age I am coming to realize just how many of my childhood experiences defined me; that even at a ripe old age, memories can bring a grin or a tear. Traumatic memories surface, but so do the joyous ones. When we come to know Jesus and understand the power of forgiveness and repentance, we see the door open wide and we can step in, assured that we will not be shut out ever again.

When we feel low or doubt our reason for being, verses referring to open doors bring encouragement and peace: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew 7:7)  "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and open the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." (Revelation 3:20)

Revelation 3:7-13