March 9 The Living Gate

John 10:7-9 Therefore Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture.”
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John 10:17 The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life –  only to take it up again.  
 
A gate is a thing. It’s not alive. Why would Jesus define himself as an object?
   The gate image is a living illustration of our Savior. Shepherds would lie down across the opening to the sheep pen at night. Amid their sleep, they would become alert to any sheep that tried to leave the sheepfold’s safety or any thief or animal that attempted to enter to steal away a lamb.
   A shepherd must be willing to sacrifice for his sheep. It is a very appropriate image for Jesus, isn’t it? He is the Good Shepherd, who lay down his body on a cross to be the eternal gate to protect your security with God. Receive his words with gratitude: “The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life –  only to take it up again.”
   Be mindful that Jesus willingly lay down his life. He loves the Father completely to live then die as a man in the Father’s will. This Trinitarian love relationship is the Living Gate for you. The Father, Son and Spirit mercifully and sacrificially act to save you from the thief, Satan. The Gate is alive, guarding you each day. The Comforter – the Helper – is within you. He lies down at night with you. He rises with you in the morning, and he walks with you protect your soul. What pleasure it is to know our Gate is constantly vigilant to keep us in the sheepfold and to keep the thief away.
   Christians, you are called to be a living gate for your family, church and community. As Jesus loved the Father, so should you love the Triune God. Guard against evil. Trust his care. Rest in his promise. Protect his own.
 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, may your church on earth be a Living Gate against evil’s attacks. Amen.