Revelation 3:20 “Listen! I stand at the door and knock.”
As regular readers will know, our little friend next door is a bit of an escapologist – taking any opportunity he can to get out of the front door and set off on an adventure. His parents now habitually lock the front door and place the key out of his reach. However, on occasions they forget or else he climbs and retrieves the key. Then we hear a tap on our kitchen window or front door. Often by the time we have made it to the door and opened it, we hear some raised voices, and all we see is their front door hastily closing and the handle being lifted as the door is again locked. The long arm of Mummy or Daddy has reached out to retrieve the errant four-year-old and place him back safely in their care.
When he knocks on the door, I am reminded of this verse in Revelation referring to Jesus knocking on the door of our heart. Like our friend, Jesus initiates contact with us symbolising his desire for a personal, voluntary relationship with us.
Unlike him though, Jesus stands there – conveying patience, humility and respect for human free will. Jesus says, “I stand” implying a deliberate established position showing His readiness and persistence.
He knocks – indicating a gentle persistent request for admittance not a forceful intrusion. He doesn’t force entry but waits for the individual to respond, highlighting the voluntary nature of faith and the personal invitation to each of us to fellowship with Him.
How will you respond to the knocking of Jesus? Will you welcome Him in or slam the door in His face?