For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Matthew 7:8 NIV
Earlier this spring, friends invited us to visit them at their timeshare in the Berkshires. Although we received great directions, we plugged the address into the GPS to help direct us. After the 2.5-hour drive, we were guided safely to their doorstep. The trip through the mountains was beautiful, but the joy came when our friends greeted us.
Our spiritual journey is kind of like that trip. We ask existential questions. Is there a God? What is his purpose in our lives? What happens when we die? Questions that often lead to other questions. But what we ask in earnest will be answered according to God's will. We seek to be transformed, to become better people tomorrow than we are today, more loving, kind, gentle, just, and merciful. The asking and seeking are all necessary and beautiful (though sometimes painful), but the joy comes when we knock on the door and our friend Jesus answers.
This journey does not happen just once, for every day is a new trip. We awake, giving thanks for the previous day, ask questions, receive answers, seek growth, and become delighted as Jesus continually opens the door, "Good morning, I'm here with you." In that encounter, we find the strength and courage to meet the new day in that encounter.
God of grace, thank you for answering when we ask, guiding us as we seek, and opening the door when we knock. Help us this day to live like Christ and share the good news of deliverance with others who seek. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
