Jesus says I am the Gate. Wait. What?
Today’s text is John 1-:1-10
In the text today we have Jesus telling us he is the gate!. Usually we gloss over this and head over to the much more comforting and much easier to understand - I am the GOOD SHEPHERD, which is just in the next section.
But what about this bit? I am the gate - I protect from sheep stealers and those will ill intent. I will open the gate and lead you into green pastures. Upon your return I will open the gate and protect you in a safe sheepfold ( where sheep sleep, and usually a large stone structure / wall in Jesus’ day - look at the image in the banner section) .
Are there places in your heart, soul, mind, physical life, where Jesus might release you from the place where you are stuck? What would that look like? Can you imagine it?
Have you ever asked in prayer for a change of heart, or a release from something that binds you?
How about from the other point of view? Do you feel fear of danger or risk these days? Pandemic not withstanding, are you in need of care or safety? What might that look like?
Have you ever in prayer asked for help or guidance on finding peace or safety from harm?
Are there concrete ways in your life that your walk with Jesus has provided these things?
Speaking for myself - there are many times I have needed release from a prison of my own making, or release from something that bound me up in anger or sin or pride. Praying for a release or for a change of heart is a powerful way to engage with God and God’s love for you. In the same way, God’s promises to us are always a safe sheepfold for us to rest writhing. Paul reminds us that neither height nor depth nor powers nor principalities, nor anything can separate us from the Love of God shown to us in Jesus Christ. Nothing. We are at rest within the loving arms of God’s grace at all times - whether or not we “feel” it. God’s promises are true in that they are the bedrock upon which creation itself rests, changed for all time in the death and resurrection of Christ. If then - we are safe and loved, how shall we live?
Prayer: Thank you God that you release us from our own sin and binding, and that you not only provide us with new avenues, new pastures, new opportunities for loving our neighbors, but that you also hold us in your safety of love and care. Keep us there always and inspire us to welcome others into an awareness of your care for them. Amen.