unlocking the door to hell

St John Chrysostom tells us that only we can steal salvation from us. If we choose to seek the treasures of the world, our house will fall. But if we store up our treasures in heaven, nothing can take them away from us.

As you see in the pic above, C.S. Lewis very astutely observed that the door to hell is locked from the inside. Anyone who goes to hell is not sent there by God, but rather they choose to be there in rejecting so great a salvation. One Bishop remarked that hell is like sulking in a corner, refusing to join in a great festivity that is going on all around you. It is a pain that is self-inflicted.

But we've all experienced that pain, haven't we? When we choose to hold a grudge rather than forgive? When we sulk in envy because someone else is praised? When we cling to what we WANTED to happen, instead of being full of joy at what God actually brought to pass?

Fortunately for all of us, even though the gate to hell is locked from the inside, the gates of hell will not prevail against the church. Let's pray that even those most resolute in rejecting happiness will at last be overwhelmed by His grace and join in the party.

God, thank You for not giving up on us when we try to lock You out, but continue to knock on our door until our hearts are turned. Please help us knock on other people's doors...