When my son was in Bible college, he had the opportunity to travel to Israel with a group of fellow students. One of the items that he brought home was a book entitled The Holy Land in Color. This was a wonderful gift that enabled me to see beautiful, close-up images of the holy sites as well as the ordinary life of the people. I was intrigued by one section in particular showing a variety of ancient doorways. A number of them had been marked with crosses, and they seemed to speak of a mysterious past.

During the Georgian period in the 1700s, one style of door construction was called "Cross and Bible". The top four panels were proportioned to delineate a cross, while the bottom two symbolized an open Bible. This design became popular in colonial America and was often referred to as a "Christian Door".

Reflecting on the subject of ancient doors immediately brought to mind a prophetic Scripture verse depicting the coming and/or the return of the Messiah.

Psalm 24:9-10 – Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is he, this King of glory? The Lord Almighty — He is the King of glory. (NIV)

Like any furnishing, door architecture can give us a glimpse of the style and personality of its owner. Yet, only by entering can we get to know the owner and see what is on the inside. With these thoughts in mind, I considered our Lord's words about His sheepfold:

John 10:9 – I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. (NKJV)

In contrast to ancient doors which represent the past, Jesus is the door by which we have access to abundant life and a future that will last throughout eternity. Our challenge is to enter into the fullness of all that He has to offer!

Prayer: Father, we acknowledge that Your Son, Jesus Christ, is the King of glory. He is also the door between the wilderness of this world and the sheepfold of Your love. Keep us safe within the walls of Your sanctuary where there are blessings of life, joy, and peace. Break down the barriers that keep others from entering Your salvation until the day of Your return. In Messiah's holy name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Lori Ciccanti <dlalsina@mchsi.com>
Ocean View, Delaware, USA
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