Jesus Doesn’t Always Use The Door


“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.” Revelation 3:20

That’s a great passage. We often use it to note the need to invite Jesus into your life. We say things like, “Jesus won’t just barge into your life. You have to welcome him.”
There’s even a famous painting of Jesus standing at a door knocking, and it’s often pointed out how there is no doorknob or latch on Jesus’ side of the door. This is all fitting, and Jesus definitely wants us to welcome him into our lives.

But then there’s this passage...

In John 20:19 we read of the disciples locked behind closed doors for fear of the Jewish leaders. Jesus had already been crucified and they feared they may be next. The account is amazing as the now resurrected Jesus appeared in the room with them and spoke the words,

“Peace be with you."

Jesus wasn’t standing at the door knocking. He didn’t need the door. He just showed up in the room with them. Of course, you don't have to be running for your life to hide behind closed doors. In fact, they don't even really have to be doors we hide behind. Sometimes we hide behind a smile...a mask, but we're really in fear.

Corrie Ten Boom knew fear. She and her family helped many Jewish people escape the Nazi Holocaust during World War II. She would end up imprisoned for her actions. She once wrote these words,

“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."

I have good news today. The same risen Jesus who showed up behind the disciple's closed doors still shows up. Even when we try to hide He's able to just appear in our situation. Doors can't keep him out. He still speaks the same words when he arrives, "Peace be with you." My prayer for you today is that as you encounter the resurrected Jesus you will experience his peace in the midst of whatever you're facing.

When the disciples encountered him they were filled with joy. I believe you will be as well!

Following the Son,

James A Williams

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