So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. John 10:7-9 NRSV
We had a fence put up around our backyard over twenty years ago. The reason at that time was to have a safe place for the boys to play. With the boys grown, it has served as an enclosure for the dogs for several years. It keeps the coyotes, skunks, and other unwanted critters outside the fence. To gain entry to the backyard, we must pass through a gate. Without an entrance, it would simply be an inaccessible enclosure.
Jesus is our gate, the only entry point to the Father. He opens this portal giving us access to that place of safety where we enjoy his protection. However, he also opens the gate to let us back into the world to live our lives securely in our salvation.
The gate is there to be used. We don't go in and out only once, but many times. Whenever we feel threatened by the world's madness, the gate is opened for us to a place of refuge, protection, and sanctuary. Then, reassured and refreshed, we are sent out again to proclaim Christ's glory.
Savior and Protector Jesus, thank you for serving as the gate. Through your mighty acts of redemption, we can access a place we previously could not go. Without your sacrifice, there would be no access to the Father. Saved by your grace and filled with the Holy Spirit, you send us back into the world as witnesses. May all our actions this day glorify you. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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