The grief is heavy. I sit on my couch reliving the pain. Tears flow down my cheeks. Suddenly, a knock at the door startles me and breaks my sorrow. I lift my head up and stare at the door.
“Who could that be at this late hour,” I whisper to myself as I wipe the tears with a tissue. I wonder why they didn’t use the doorbell, then I remember it’s broken.
Another gentle knock on the door breaks my concentration. A light tapping as if wanting to disturb me, yet wanting to console me. I get off the couch, walk to the door and peer through the peep hole.
“Jesus?” I say half-aloud as if to convince myself. His face is warm and welcoming, filled with concern. I wonder why he would bother with someone as worthless as me.
This wasn’t the first time I’ve heard his knock. Many times I have stood at this door, my heart filled with inexplicable joy, my hand on the door knob. Yet I did not let him in.
My hand reaches for the door knob. This time is different. As I open the door to let Jesus in, I feel his warmth and compassion overtake me. I am still filled with sorrow, but his presence is a soothing balm.
We sit at the table and break bread together. Over a meal we talk about life, about suffering, about pain and rejection, about overcoming it all. He understands. His compassion is born out of suffering. His empathy for me is real. I find comfort in his presence, grateful this time I let him into my life.
Retrospective: This post originally published January 7, 2020.
© 2020, Chris G. Thelen
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. – Revelation 3:20 (NASB)
Amen! Chris, these emotion-filled words encourage each believer to bring Jesus to another broken doorbell. At the same time, we are reminded that Jesus will bring grace and compassion to us when we need it the most.
Yes, Jesus understands our pain, our needs. He is always by our side. Blessings.
My this spoke to me so very very deeply. I absolutely love this verse, to me it says everything about God’s love for us. He will not rush or pressure us but he waits until we are ready. Love the way you penned this, simply beautiful. Thank you!!
Thank you for your kind words. I am so grateful that God is patient. His love for us is abundant. Blessings to you.
This is salve for my grieving heart. Thank you.
Christ is there by your side. He knows the pain of loss. Blessings.
My door bell is sometimes broken too. Why it takes so long to answer the knock is anybody’s guess. Human nature. But don’t I always feel better when I let Him in?
I think for me it is the conversation with Jesus that is important, sharing my feelings knowing he understands pain and rejection. I agree sometimes I don’t always feel better, but it is good to know He is there with me, walking though my struggles, sharing His wisdom. Blessings.
Beautiful way to drive the message home👌Even so come Lord Jesus come🎶
Thanks. Blessings.
Beautiful
Thanks. Blessings.