Come In.

One day as I was window shopping I found this sign on the door of one of my favorite local shops. Because of its inviting charm, I instantly felt welcome. So I stepped inside, chatted with the owner for a few minutes, found out we knew each other through a family connection, and made a purchase of an ornamental plant and two wreaths.

I've since wondered what my door feels like to those approaching. Do they notice the dust and dirt and dried leaves from the latest storm? Do they notice the vintage charm of the blue chair, my rustic bench, and the worn ladder? Do they feel welcome when they knock and I open the door to invite them in? Or not?

To take it even deeper, how does our Savior feel when He approaches the door to our hearts? Does He feel welcome as we instantly open the door to His gentle knock? Does He feel ignored when He knocks and knocks with no answer?

What sign do we figuratively hang on the doors of our hearts? Do we too often miss the opportunity to speak with our Lord and Savior because He finds these signs:

• "Busy--come back later."
• "We're sleeping--do not disturb."
• "No Trespassing"

Could we examine the state of our hearts and take down those signs, to instead replace them with one of the following:

• "Come in, I am always open!"
• "Welcome! Please come in, I've been so excited to talk to you."
• "You don't even need to knock--just come right in!"

Revelation 3:20 is one of my all-time favorite verses:

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

For today, consider placing a special sign on your door just for the Savior--one that's there to stay. You decide what your sign will say.

Open up your heart and let Him in. Let Him come in and sup with you. Let Him abide with you. 

And once you let Him in? What then?
This is the topic we will explore tomorrow...