Beyond the Gate

In the Gospel of John, Jesus says, “I am the gate.” I used to think of a gate as something exclusive, as a way of keeping people out. And it can be. But my wife Robbie reminded me that a gate is also an opening – often an opening to something that is otherwise hard to access. 

In that sense, when I think about gates, I can’t help but think about this past summer when I was on sabbatical in Scotland. Those of you who have been to Scotland know that there are more sheep than people. They are everywhere! And of course, sheep need pasture. And so in Scotland, we drove through pastures. We hiked through pastures. We went for our morning runs through pastures. 

What is really nice is that Scotland has a “Right to Roam” law. This means that people are always permitted to hike through pasture land. And if you like surfing, which I do, access to many of the surf spots in Scotland, involves hiking through pastures. Because of the “Right to Roam” law, the gates (which are necessary to protect the sheep) are always unlocked. 

When looking for waves, the other side of the gate, was often at first a little bit of a mystery… What’s over there? I’ll never forget one day, coming through the gate, up over the hill only to see the breathtaking sight of a beautiful clean, clear green-blue wave peeling perfectly across a rock reef. Sheer cliffs drop into the sea on one side. Sheep were grazing on the other. Treasure behind the gate!

When I think about gates, I also think about our home in Saint Augustine. Just a couple of blocks away is a small back gate leading into Anastasia State Park. This park too is a treasure. Hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, miles of undeveloped beach. Another small gate to a whole other world…

Jesus says, “I am the Gate…” I am the opening.

Perhaps you are wondering: What mystery lies beyond this gate? I do know this. His statement is ever an invitation. The Gate is always unlocked.

Let us pray: Loving God, when we contemplate Jesus, we see compassion, mercy, grace upon grace. We see your heart. We thank you for his invitation. Grant us open hearts to explore what lies beyond. Amen.