Locked out

Bolting the hotel room door feels like a statement.  I am officially done for the day.  This particular lock is old-school but satisfying.  As I swing the bar over, I am committing to my space, my time.  The world outside can wait until tomorrow.

A lock is a great metaphor for what I’m reading in Isaiah 7.  Here, I’ll share with you what I drew in my journal.

I wonder at Ahaz’s obtuseness.  Here is the all-powerful LORD of hosts, Creator of the cosmos, inviting him to ask for anything!  Nothing is too high or too low.  And yet the king refuses.  I think, I wish God would give me such an invitation!

Then I realize that, of course, he does:

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us… (Eph. 3:20)

Jesus says, “Ask and it shall be given to you.”  (Matt. 7:7). The door is unlocked on heaven’s side.  Is it still locked on mine?

Father, there are so many reasons why we don’t pray as we ought.  Sometimes we feel that the door really isn’t unlocked on your side.  Other times, we too are content to leave you (and the needy world) on the other side of the door.  Forgive us, Lord.  Help us to believe your promises.

Reader:  What is your prayer that feels too high or too low?