I Stand At The Door and Knock
by Marnie Pehrson

We work, we pray, we look forward to big events and life-changing experiences, but then there is always that point where we just have to let go and let time and events take their course.

There is always a point where we have to let go. We work, we pray, we look forward to big events and life-changing experiences, but then there is always that point where we just have to let go and let time and events take their course. You can't control everything and that has always been one of my greatest challenges in life -- letting go. There are so many things we *can* control in our lives that some of us feel we can simply *will* anything into existence, but this doesn't always work.

Probably the hardest challenge in letting go is when our goals, plans, and dreams involve other people. When our future is tied to someone else and s/he is unwilling or lacks the vision or courage to go where we want to go, what can we do? Do we halt our development and progression to wait on this other person to catch up? Do we run on and leave them behind? Or is there some other happy medium? We can't force someone else to see our vision, to follow our path. Arguing and pressuring only serve to drive them to dig in their heels, or worse, run in the opposite direction.

When we think of how God leads us in our lives, we find the answer. Firmness, not force is the key. God never gives in or wavers in his course, but he is long-suffering and ever-willing to take us back. We, as He, must be firm in our convictions, steadfast, focused and committed. Leading others up the path of truth requires love, patience, gentleness, diligence, meekness -- and yes, time.

How many times have we messed up and Jesus is still there waiting and willing -- standing at the door and knocking if we will but let him in? He never beats the door down. He never even picks the lock and sneaks in through manipulation. He doesn't shout, belittle or guilt-trip us from the other side of the door. He simply patiently stands there and knocks until the time arrives that we have the ears to hear the knocking and the willingness and courage to open the door.

Jesus knows that force, manipulation, power games, and dominion will never lead someone else to the light. Love, service, patient teaching and a good example will do more to soften hearts and shape lives than any argument or debate. Is someone else in your life that you love choosing the wrong paths? Are they digging in their heels when you would really like them to join you on your walk up the path of truth? Then, follow Christ's example. Be His partner in this endeavor. Be an instrument in his hands to help your friend or loved one hear the knocking. Take the time to teach them to listen and hear the tapping. When the time is right for them, take their hand and walk with them to open the door through which more joy and happiness than they ever dreamed possible exists.

The beautiful thing about this process is that as we strain to hear Christ at the door for our friend's sake, we hear Him ourselves. And as we take our friend's hand to walk with them to the door we can't help but arrive at the door ourselves. And when our friend opens the door, we will be there to feel the flood of joy and happiness that flows as Christ enters.

Marnie Pehrson is an Internet developer, writer & moderator of ''Finding Your Way Home -- A Christian Perspective,'' a Christian support community helping you progress from whatever stage you are spiritually to the next level. Join in and receive inspirational quotes, articles, and thoughts like this 3-4 times/week. Also feature your own articles in the community and voice your opinions at http://www.ideamarketers.com/christian/ 

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