Around the Wicket Gate

Countless individuals find themselves in distant places, far from God and peace; for them, we pray and offer warnings. But today, we turn our attention to a smaller group who stand not far from the kingdom, right at the wicket gate that marks the beginning of the path to eternal life. One might expect them to rush in, as a free and open invitation hangs over the entrance, with the porter eagerly waiting to welcome them. The one burdened with sin seems the most prepared to step through and embark on the journey to heaven. Yet, what holds back the others? Those who hesitate to take this crucial step of faith risk perishing. It is a terrifying thought to die just outside the gate of life—almost saved, yet entirely lost! A man just outside Noahs ark would surely drown; a killer outside the refuge city would meet his end; similarly, the person who stands merely a yard from Christ but does not trust Him will be lost. Thus, I earnestly implore my hesitant friends to cross the threshold. Come in! Come in! is my urgent plea. May the Holy Spirit make these words resonate with many who read them! To God, I commend this message; for without His grace, nothing written here will bear fruit.