OPEN AND CLOSED

 "I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved" John 10:9.

In the legal field, the phrase "open and shut case" is often used to describe a situation where the outcome is clear and undeniable. This concept of open and shut is also deeply relevant in the spiritual realm. Despite the sins of humanity, God the Father opened His heart to us. Although sin created a gulf between us and Him, shutting us off from His presence, He reopened the way by allowing His Son to die on the cross. Jesus became our access point to salvation.

In John 10:9, Jesus declares: "I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved." Yet, despite God's abundant grace, many hearts remain bolted shut—closed off to Him and to others. People can be quick to shut out those who need love, forgiveness, and mercy, and more tragically, they shut out the Savior Himself. In Revelation 3:20, Jesus gives a heartfelt invitation: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him."

• Will we answer?

• Have we truly opened our hearts to Jesus, or is there still a barrier keeping Him out?
• In what ways can you and I be more open to God's presence and His calling in our lives?
• Are there people we have closed our hearts to that God calls us to forgive and welcome in?

The parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) reminds us that opportunity does not last forever. The five wise virgins were prepared and entered when the doors were open. But the five foolish ones were unprepared, and when they finally arrived, they found the door closed—permanently. They knocked, they pleaded, but it was too late. God has opened the door of salvation—but will we open our hearts to Him? When Jesus knocks, we must not delay. We must be ready, prepared, and willing to respond.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, it's me again. Thank You for opening the door of salvation through Jesus Christ. Help me to keep my heart open to You and to others. Make me aware of areas of my heart that I have locked. When You knock, may I answer without hesitation? Let me live in a way that reflects Your grace and readiness. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.