Devotion - Wednesday, April 11

John 20:19 -  "When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews."

We lock doors way too often.  When a door is locked, it serves both as a physical barrier and also a psychological one.  Those outside can see our disinterest in having them enter.  Those inside do not need to worry about interruption or intrusion.

The disciples are locked inside.  They are afraid.  Fear has brought them to this place.  They are no longer responding to the Good News; they have allowed themselves to be locked up.

As this passage was read on Sunday, I wondered about the things which so fill us with fear that we lock our doors?  I wondered if we were even aware of the locked doors which make it difficult for others to approach us. And, if we are ever remorseful that those locks are limiting our ability to be out in the world, among the very persons for whom Jesus gave his life.

In John 20, Jesus is able to overcome the locked door.  While they are filled with fear, Jesus comes to them and reminds them of the peace his extends.

Allow Jesus to move beyond and through the locked doors in your life.  Allow Jesus to give you the peace of mind which allows you to set aside your fear and open the door.