WEEKLY DEVOTION

Scripture:

John 10:9 (ESV) "I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture."

Devotional Thought:

Every house has a front door. It is designed to welcome people in, not keep them out. Jesus used this picture to describe Himself. He didn't say He would show us the door or point us to the door—He said, "I am the door." Through Him, we have access to God's grace, forgiveness, and abundant life.

Just as Jesus has welcomed us, He calls us to be people who reflect His heart. Sometimes, however, life's disappointments, hurt, or fear can cause our hearts to become like a "sticky door"—hard to open and difficult for others to approach. We may think we're protecting ourselves, but in reality, a closed heart can also keep out healing, compassion, and the opportunities God places before us.

The Bible tells us to guard our hearts, not close them. A guarded heart has wisdom and healthy boundaries, but it still knows how to love, forgive, and welcome others.

This week, remember that the Church doesn't stay inside a building. Every place you go becomes an opportunity for someone to encounter Jesus through your life. Your workplace, school, neighbourhood, or home may be the very place where someone is searching for hope. God has positioned you there so you can point them to the true Door—Jesus Christ.

Reflection Questions:

1. Has my heart become guarded in a healthy way, or has it become closed because of past hurt?
2. Who has God placed in my life that may be searching for hope?
3. How can I reflect the welcoming heart of Jesus in my conversations and actions this week?

Prayer:

Father, thank You for making a way for me through Jesus, the Door to abundant life. Help me to keep my heart open to Your Spirit and to the people You bring into my life. Heal any areas where hurt has caused me to close myself off. Give me compassion, wisdom, and courage to welcome others with the same grace You have shown me. May my life always point people to Jesus. In His name, Amen.

Action Step:

Be intentional this week to welcome someone. Invite a friend for coffee, greet someone new at church, encourage a colleague, or simply take time to listen to someone who needs it. Ask God to help you be an open door to His love.

Family Declaration:

Today we declare: As a family, we choose to keep our hearts open to God and to the people He places in our lives. Jesus is the Door to our home, and we will reflect His grace, love, and compassion wherever we go. We will not allow fear or past hurts to close our hearts. Instead, we will welcome others, share hope, and point people to Jesus. Our home will always have room for one more because Christ first welcomed us. Amen.