I Am The Gate

To reflect God’s heart to the world around us, we need to know God’s heart and, we believe, God’s heart is most clearly represented in Jesus. In the weeks leading up to Easter, we invite you to explore the life of Jesus by reading the Gospel of John with us. As we delve into the richness of scripture, we’ll utilize the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, which invites us to slow down and posture our hearts to hear from God. With that said, let’s begin with a prayer:

Open your time by reciting these words:

Lord, as I approach scripture, prepare my heart to encounter You in its pages. Quiet the distractions that pull me away and open my eyes to see Your truth. May I encounter these words humbly, with an open mind and a receptive spirit. May my time in Scripture be a sacred encounter that deepens my relationship with You and transforms me into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lectio (Reading)

Take a moment to read John 10:1-10 slowly and attentively. As you read, pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you. Allow the text to wash over you, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart.

“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:9-10

Meditatio (Meditation)

In the ancient days of shepherding, there was constant vigilance required to protect the flocks from lurking predators. Through the night, shepherds diligently gathered their sheep into makeshift folds for safety. Often, these enclosures accommodated multiple flocks tended by different shepherds, where the shepherd himself stood as the sole gateway to the sheep's security. It was in the intimacy of this relationship that the sheep learned to discern their shepherd's voice, faithfully following it as dawn broke.

It is within this pastoral imagery that Jesus, in his profound wisdom, paints himself as the gate for the sheep. This metaphor, rich in depth, unveils three profound truths. Firstly, Jesus embodies the gateway to salvation: "Whoever enters through me will be saved." There exists no alternative path to salvation; Jesus stands as the sole conduit to God, the very essence of salvation. Neither through human endeavors nor religious piety can one attain salvation; Christ alone is the gateway!

Secondly, Jesus illuminates the path to freedom: "They will come in and go out..." Amidst the myriad of worldly avenues that promise liberation yet lead to captivity and enslavement, Jesus is the door to true freedom. Finally, Jesus unveils himself as the gateway to provision: "They will... find pasture." Christ abundantly provides for every facet of our existence, ushering us into a life of flourishing abundance. His divine mission is to grant us life in its fullest measure!

Take a moment to reflect on the words you have read. Imagine for a moment the imagery Jesus employs - a gate, like the entrance to a safe place where sheep find protection from danger. But it's more than just a picture; it's an invitation to find safety and purpose in Him. As you meditate on Jesus as the Gate, consider what it means for your life today. Just as a gate provides protection and access, Jesus offers us a way to safety and refuge from the storms of life.

Contemplatio (Contemplation)

When we choose to follow Jesus, it sets us free from the things that used to hold us back, like fear and doubt. It's like stepping into a wide-open space where we can move around without any restrictions. And it's not just about freedom; it's also about finding what we need to keep going in life. In this place, we can hear the voice of someone who cares about us, someone who knows us inside and out. It's a comforting voice that reminds us we're not alone, that we're loved and supported no matter what.

Take a moment to reflect on times in your life when you have felt in need of protection or security. How have you sought refuge in those moments? How might viewing Jesus as the gate change your perspective on finding safety and shelter?

Actio (Action)

Walking through the Gate means letting go of our fears, doubts, and desires, and fully accepting Jesus' invitation. It's about trusting Him with our lives, knowing that He can provide the security and contentment we long for. It's like handing over the reins to someone we know will take care of us. When we walk through the Gate, we're choosing to rely on Jesus instead of trying to do everything on our own. It's a shift from depending on ourselves to depending on Him for guidance and support. And when we do that, we can find a sense of peace and fulfillment that goes beyond anything this world can offer.

Take a moment to respond to the passage with openness and honesty, offering your thoughts, feelings, and desires to God. Surrender your fears and doubts, placing your trust fully in the hands of your Shepherd who promises to lead you to green pastures and still waters.

Oratio (Prayer)

Close your time by reciting this prayer or lifting up your own:

Heavenly Father, we come before you with grateful hearts, acknowledging Jesus as the gate to safety, security, and purpose in our lives. Help us to trust in His provision and guidance, surrendering our fears and doubts at His feet. May we step through the gate with confidence, knowing that in Him, we find true fulfillment and abundant life. Amen.