As a boy, I remember visiting in homes where Warner Sallman’s famous painting, “Christ at Heart’s Door” was prominently displayed. Based on the text from Rev. 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock…,” Sallman’s portrait is rich in meaning. The light surrounding Jesus lights up the door frame and shows it in the shape of a heart. That heart is covered by thistles that would otherwise be hidden by the darkness of the late hour. There is no doorknob or latch on the outside of the door, but the beautiful hinges on the door indicate it can be opened if only the resident is willing.

The message of the painting is clear: Jesus comes to each of us seeking entrance into our hearts. All around are the things that can keep the heart from responding, but opportunity is present. The vines and thistles have not yet closed off the door, no rust is on the hinges to prevent the door from opening and the window of the door is not covered to prevent the heart from seeing that the Savior is waiting for an answer.

In the Parable of the Sower, (Mt. 13:1-23), Jesus taught that some are so caught up in the world that the word of God means nothing to them. Others let persecution and trouble overcome them. Others allow the care of the world to keep them from maturing in the faith. But, one heart will allow the word to take root and grow. That soil of good and honest hearts recognizes the tremendous opportunity that comes from having Jesus reside therein.

Jesus knocks at the door of every heart. He asks only that you allow him to come in. He will not force his way into your heart. He gives the opportunity, you must make the decision to accept or reject it. The answer you give will determine your destiny in eternity!

 

Gary Knuckles is minister of the Briensburg Church of Christ in Briensburg, KY.