Stand and knock
Recently I was a tourist. I visited St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, as I had not been there for over 40 years.
I arrived mid-morning, and after a coffee, I made my way into this majestic building. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the late 17th Century, it has been a place of prayer and worship for over 1400 years!
As I entered, I stopped and took it all in: the beauty of the incredible design and the historical significance, I was moved to tears.
I did climb the 528 steps to the ‘Golden Gallery’, taking in the ‘Whispering Gallery’ on the way up, and enjoyed wonderful views of the City of London.
Then I came across an incredible piece of art called, ‘The Light of the World’ by William Holman Hunt, painted 1900-1904, and is inspired by this verse in the book of Revelation…
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
The painting is rich in metaphors and meaning. The door is overgrown with ivy and has rusty nails, showing that it has not been in use for some time.
One thing that Hunt did was not to put a handle on the door, implying that it can only be opened from the inside.
In other words, it is up to an individual to open the door to Jesus, as He won’t force himself, but he is there, as a light of hope for everyone.
Over the years I have found this to be true. Personally, when I became a Christian I ‘opened the door’ and asked Jesus to save, renew and restore me.
Even now, there are times when I ask Jesus for his help and guidance, I open the door and allow Him in.
Jesus is standing at your door and knocking, what will you do?
God bless you:)
Gary Bastin
Hope Community Church leader