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A Whimsical Dictionary: K is for Key

A Whimsical Dictionary: K is for Key

A Whimsical Dictionary of Surprising Influences.

K is for Key –

It’s small enough to hide in the palm of your hand, yet will render a strong man helpless behind a locked door. A key is a symbol of authority, and is synonymous with “most significant” and “decisive influence.” Yet it is the item most easily forgotten or mislaid in a household. A key can control the destiny of a room full of precious jewels, yet can be purchased for a dollar. Clearly, even though it’s light enough to lift with one finger, a key carries a lot of weight. These are things to remember the next time you feel slighted, overlooked, or forgotten.

There are keys that won’t be lost, though. Jesus is said to wield David’s key to the New Jerusalem, regarding which His ultimate authority is unquestioned: “What he opens, no one can shut; what he shuts, no one can open.” (Rev. 3:7). You can bet He won’t have to fumble for that one in His coat pocket.

Isn’t it ironic that the Lord has the key to the gate of heaven, and also the keys to Death and Hades (Rev. 1:18), yet He doesn’t hold the key to the doors of our souls? He is said to be standing at that door, patiently knocking (Rev. 3:20). But only we have the key to unlock the door from the inside, open it, and invite Him to supper. The difficult thing is that there are competing guests. “Sin is crouching, lurking at your door; it desires to have you.” (Gen. 4:7).

This picture graphically illustrates the difference between the Good One and the Evil One. Jesus mercifully waits at the door, knocking to let us know He’s still there and will jolly well remain there until we let Him in. Satan is crouching deceptively at the door, ready to put his foot in the smallest cracked opening, like some brash encyclopedia salesman.

What a wonder! Jesus, our zealous lover, refuses to violate our freedom, but just the same continually longs for us. He will restrain His ultimate authority, He will not try to let himself in without our permission. He will forever stand there knocking, because His mercy endures forever.