“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock.”

— Revelation 3:20

Knock, knock jokes can be fun and amusing—and yet some can induce groans. But Jesus’ knock at the door in his letter to Laodicea was no joke.

As we have learned, the Laodiceans were so bad off that Jesus threatened to spit them out of his mouth. But he also graciously knocks, wanting to provide forgiveness and to join with his followers in the banquet prepared for everyone in God’s eternal kingdom.

This invitation has continued throughout history. Believers who respond are sinners saved by God’s amazing grace, restored and revived through Jesus. He is at the right hand of God the Father, who is, and was, and always will be. We can find comfort in this today and tomorrow and forever.

As Jesus explained, he rebukes and disciplines those whom he loves. When you sense his love toward you, he is knocking at your door, calling for repentance and offering real, full life. Do not wait or be slow to remember. Repent and obey.

The repentant person is met by the presence of Jesus, “the Amen, the faithful and true witness,” standing at the door of their heart, awaiting their response. When his call is received by a repentant heart, Jesus promises to come in and eat with that person, enjoying the kingdom banquet. The scene is that of victory, salvation, and full life with the Lord of lords and King of kings. No joke!

Loving Savior, thank you for coming not only to invite me to your banquet but also to lay down your life to pay for my sin. Help me to live faithfully for you. Amen.