Devotions By Jan

Monthly Archives: October 2013


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Door Knocker

Scripture for Today:  Revelation 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.”

I love seeing a beautiful brass or iron door knocker on a massive wooden door.  It just seems classier than an electronic doorbell.  I especially like the ones resembling the head of a lion or an eagle.

Hearing our company arrive is never a problem as our kitchen is close to the front door.  But I sometimes worry that I will miss their knock.  There is nothing worse than standing too long at the door, wondering if you have the right house or the right date!  When we fly to the door to open it, our Tiger runs the other way for dear life.

Our verse for today uses the image of standing at the door and knocking.  These words are said by Jesus to the church at Laodicea.  His message is full of warmth and makes clear His desire for relationship.  What better way to become close than to share a meal around the table!  He awaits our arrival at the door.  He does not come in until we hear His voice and open that door.  We open it to show our same desire for relationship.  I am sure His knock and His voice are loud enough to hear.  But I can see how one might miss it.  The distractions of life can drown out the sound.

I am amazed that He wants to dine with me!  What a warm intimate thought!  I do not want to miss out by being too busy.  He is waiting for me on my doorstep.  Lord, may I listen for your knock and open the door today!


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Lampstand

Scripture for Today: Luke 8:16 “Now no one after lighting a lamp covers it over with a container, or puts it under a bed; but he puts it on a lampstand, so that those who come in may see the light.”

Old fashioned lampstands seem to be everywhere in Europe.  When I see them, I often think of the character, Lucy, in C.S. Lewis’ Narnia series.  On entering Narnia, she sees a lampstand in the forest and wonders why it is there.  She learns that it marks the border between the two worlds.

In our verse for today, Jesus gives us this parable of the lampstand immediately after the parable of the Sower.  The seed in the fourth scenario has fallen on good ground and produces fruit (verse 15).  The one that has really received the Word of God and keeps it will be like a lamp that is lit.  The light of the knowledge of Him not only enlightens us, but is intended to light the way for others.

Jesus explains two improbable uses of this light; covering it with a container or hiding it under a bed.  The light used in this way is not extinguished.  But there is no point in having light if it is not used for its purpose.  For the light to have value it is to be seen by others.  The light is to be lifted up on a stand so it can be visible.

Having my light on a tall stand rather than hidden is to put myself out there.  It means taking a stand in a public manner.  Matthew 5:16 says my light is the good works I do to glorify my Father.  Lord, show me how to uncover that light and shine for You today.