“The Door Holder” by Justin March

As I finished up the book “Following the Master” by Dr. Scott Ness, I felt a sense of peace and
understanding for what God is trying to show me in this life. Dr. Ness has a
powerful way of taking his “life stories” and intertwining them into “life
lessons” that help him and his family in their walk with the Lord. His book
opened my eyes to areas where I am failing as a disciple, but in turn, he gave
me insights as to how I could use these shortcomings to become the man God is
challenging me to be. I am always amazed at how God uses others to bless our
lives, and this book was exactly what I needed to enhance my journey with
Jesus.

In Dr. Ness’ final
thoughts, he writes a beautiful message about how the church needs “door
holders.” Here is a snapshot of the powerful words God has given him to portray
what it means to play such an important role.

“A door holder is one who
willingly stands at the threshold to welcome others in and is a servant who
finds joy in helping others find joy. Door holders are a vital part of our life
in community. Door holders stand at the threshold and they understand the
language of the people who are near to God but are willing to be the greeters
and interpreters for those who do not yet know him. Door holders are servants
who put the needs of others ahead of their own. They sacrifice their wants and
desires because their joy is found in helping others to enter into God’s
presence.”

I have asked myself,
many times this week, “Am I a door holder?” Over the last few years, God has
enriched my life with bounties I never knew possible. He has opened my eyes to
see the beauty around me, He has allowed me to slow down and take in his daily
“miracles”, and He has surrounded me with loving family and friends that
encourage me to stay on His precious path. These are gifts I would have never
found at my local Wal Mart or Target, and these are gifts I am not sure I will
ever be able to repay.

So, I will strive to
be a door holder for Christ. I will try to be cognizant of the needs of those
around me. I will keep my eyes open to what God is trying to show me, and I
will share those findings with those who need to experience them. I will engage
in caring conversations, I will use God’s words to spread messages of hope and
encouragement, and I will allow His light to shine through me so others are
attracted to what only He can offer.

I know there are times
I will fail. I know there will be instances where I put my needs ahead of
others. And I know there will be shortcomings as I allow my agenda to become
bigger than God’s. But if I pray, forgive, love, and sacrifice, there is faith
that I can become a “door holder” for Christ.

As you encounter
whatever comes your way this week, I challenge you to ask yourself this
question before you make any decisions or judge any circumstance. Try to treat
each engagement as a blessing and try to think about what you could sacrifice
to make life better for another. And always remember that YOU may be the light
that person needs to find their way to a relationship with God.

What will you do to
become a “door holder” for God this week?