The Open Door – by Lillian Rhoades
We close doors when we want privacy or to protect from unwanted intruders. Yet, there’s another door that should never be closed. It’s the door that hinges on compassion, grace, and forgiveness. Several months ago, I had a rather intense conversation with a close relative. It ended with a suggestion from my relative that perhaps we should have little more to do with each other. I believe my response was God generated. “Oh, no! I don’t close doors,” I responded vehemently. By the momentary silence on the other end of the line, I could tell the words had found its mark. I had prevented a potential breakup of a lifelong relationship with words that could only have been heaven sent.
Today, I’m thinking about the near split as I read, The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works (Psalms 145:8, 9 KJV). The verse reminds me that God cherishes His relationships with His created ones. No matter how often we say or do things that hurt Him, He never wants to end His relationship with us. His heart is full of compassion and mercy, and nothing can separate us from His love. God will never shut the door and leave us standing outside and abandoned.
God’s attitude towards us sets the standard for how we should respond when solid relationships are threatened. Compassion and forbearance are irresistible. Strive to handle relational problems by being God-centered, not people-centered. That’s the only way to keep your heart’s door open.
Lillian writes from upstate, New York. Her book, When Youth Fades, tells what twenty-first century seniors can learn from seniors of Biblical times, and is available on HERE. Contact |
