A Journey to Easter - Day 17
- Debbra Stephens
- Mar 21
- 2 min read
And lift them up, O ancient doors,
that the King of glory may come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory!
(Psalm 24:7-10 ESV)
I have such profound memories of this psalm from the liturgical procession during the Greek Orthodox Easter service. It’s a climactic moment when members of the church, all standing outside, with only candlelight in the dark of night, are led by the priest to the closed doors of the church. Scepter in hand, he knocks loudly upon the door, announcing the arrival of the King of Glory. Will she open her doors?
This psalm, sung by the Israelites in worship, reenacts a verbal exchange made during a historical temple ceremony or occasion. The announcement was made that their King had come into their presence and was requesting entry.
To ward off invasion, gates of ancient walled cities were locked up tight—to keep out marauding kings, whose only desire was to conquer and destroy.
There is an enemy of the Lord’s church with the same desire. Which explains the oft repeated command of Jesus to keep watch. The Bible reveals this spiritual war being waged against God’s people and provides wisdom for the battle. God has also provided armor for the fight (Ephesians 6:10-18) and the powerful defenses of the Holy Spirit. The Book of Revelation holds out hope as a beacon, that the gates of Zion will never be closed (Revelation 21:25). For we will be in the presence of the King of Glory.
The Spirit led the apostle John to write this message from Jesus to the church at Laodicea, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Revelation 3:20-22). Ultimately, the Lord’s message to them was to be zealous, as opposed to being lukewarm (Revelation 3:16). And to repent from being blind to their true state (Revelation 3:19).
This season let’s join together in praying that the Lord’s presence is not denied from any outpost of His global church. May His people fling wide the doors to their hearts. Let’s permit the victorious King of Glory to enter in!
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