Open Your Door to Jesus

I printed a copy of a famous painting done by the painter William Holman Hunt in 1854 (easily obtained online, it’s public domain). That's about 160 years ago (pass it to kids). It's been redone by other painters in different styles. The painting is called "Light of the World" It's a painting of Jesus standing outside in the dark, knocking at a door and holding a lantern. William Holman Hunt had a couple of scriptures in mind when he painted this:

John 8:12 Jesus spoke to the people again. He said, “I am the light of the world. Those who follow me will never walk in darkness. They will have the light that leads to life.” (NIRV)

How do you think William Holman portrayed Jesus as the "light of the world"? (He’s holding a lamp)

Rev 3:20 ‘Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If any of you hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with you. And you will eat with me. (NIRV)

How did Mr. Holman portray that scripture? (Jesus is knocking on a door)

Mr. Holman Hunt left out one detail on purpose when he painted the door. It’s something that all door usually have can you guess what it is? (A doorknob). He didn't paint the doorknob on the outside of the door. He did this as a symbol that Jesus will not come into your heart and life unless you open the door to him yourself, Jesus will not come uninvited or push his way in to your life.

There's another feature in this painting that I find interesting. The scene takes place in the dark. Jesus often comes during the dark hours of our life, when were having problems. And usually for most people, that's when we realize that we want Jesus to come into our life and help us. Let's pray!

“Dear God, Thank you for sending Jesus to die for us so that we can have eternal life with you. Please soften our hearts so that we will always open up to Him when He comes knocking. Give us courage and strength to follow Him especially when we are having problems. Thank you for loving and caring for us, in Jesus name we pray. Amen.”