Friday, January 25, 2008

Gates and gardens

Luke 13:24 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able."
 
Today, on a business trip to another part of the state, we drove down a winding, wooded road lined with lovely homes, many of which would probably be considered estates because they displayed such elaborate and gorgeous landscaping (with grand homes approaching mansion size).   As we passed one particularly striking property my eyes drank in a dramatically upward sloping front yard that was well over an acre in size.  At the front of the property, just beyond the road, was a lovely pond.  The beauty, even in winter, was captivating as water, trees and land combined not only to impress but to cause me to appreciate the work and care invested.  My thoughts of reverie were interrupted however as we passed the home's driveway and I spied heavy black iron gates closed to ensure no unwanted visitors would actually intrude.  My immediate thought was that, on the one hand, the owners seemed to want appreciation for the lovely pond and spectacular home that lay beyond, but on the other hand, they didn't want folks to get too close and actually set foot there. 
 
I'm glad that our opportunity for heaven is different.  When the Lord gives us a clear view of His kingdom, the gates roll back and we see Him standing there just beyond beckoning us to follow Him in to enjoy the property and to dine with Him.
 
blessings,
Rob Smith

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