A Knocking at the Door

 

[Jesus said] “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.” (Revelation 3:20-21 ESV).

 

We can’t leave this brief series without looking back a bit. Perhaps you remember I started it with the image of the journey toward the “chapel”. That was an intentional image to call to mind our walk with Jesus as believers. Theologically we could simply say that is our sanctification; or, simply reference the process of making each of us ready for our eternal home in heaven and ultimate glorification. Of course, our journey has a beginning as well. That is that moment we are born again. Our reading today calls that to mind as Jesus directs the Apostle John to write the last letter to the seven churches addressed to the Laodiceans. The picture of Jesus knocking at the door is perfect, especially when we remember that Jesus came to us with the invitation to be redeemed and take this marvelous journey.

 

We should remember that the Laodiceans were so bad off that Jesus threatened to spit them out of his mouth. But he comes in mercy and graciously knocks, wanting to provide forgiveness and to join with his followers in the banquet prepared for everyone in God’s eternal kingdom. This invitation has continued throughout history. Believers who respond are sinners saved by God’s amazing grace, restored and revived through Jesus. He is at the right hand of God the Father, who is, and was, and always will be. We can find comfort in this today and tomorrow and forever.

 

The reading emphasizes the personal nature of faith, highlighting that salvation is not merely a communal experience but a calling by God made to individuals to come be a part of His family. It speaks of a reciprocal relationship, where believers share in Christ's victory and reign, just as He shares in their lives and experiences. The promise of sitting on the throne with Christ is a powerful symbol of ultimate victory and eternal glory for believers. The scene is that of victory, salvation, and full life with the Lord of lords and King of kings. Could there ever be a more wonderful end to this journey of ours! Whatever the path looks like right now, trust that it will end with Jesus taking you into eternity as His chosen child, forever! If you are hearing Him knocking today, open the door!