Scripture (KJV) – Luke 13:24–25
“Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:”
Reflection
There is a dangerous idea that we can put God off today because there will always be another opportunity tomorrow. Jesus warns us that this is not true. There comes a time when the door is shut.
These people knew enough to call Him “Lord, Lord,” but knowing what to call Jesus was not the same as truly belonging to Him. They waited until it was too late to seek entrance.
This should cause every one of us to examine where we stand with Christ. Salvation is not something to postpone until life becomes more convenient. We are not promised tomorrow, and none of us knows how much time we have.
For the Christian, this passage should also give us a greater burden for the lost. There are people around us who may believe they have plenty of time to get right with God. We should lovingly tell them the truth while there is still opportunity.
Jesus is not trying to frighten people away from salvation. He is warning them not to wait until the opportunity is gone.
If God is dealing with you today, do not harden your heart. Do not assume you can answer Him later.
The door of salvation is open today, but Scripture never promises that you will have another tomorrow.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the opportunity to come to You through Jesus Christ. Help me never to take Your grace for granted or assume that I will always have another day. Examine my life and show me anything that needs to be made right with You. Give me a greater burden for those who do not know Christ, and give me the courage and love to tell them the truth while there is still time. Thank You for sending Jesus to save us from our sins. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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