Lifetime Daily DevotionsSample

The Keeper of the Keys

God sent Him . . . to proclaim liberty to captives, and freedom to prisoners.
Isaiah 61:1

Just imagine . . .
slowly now . . .
having your hair done. You're sitting under the dryer.
Sauntering down the walkways at the mall, leisurely.
Going down an escalator.
Sitting on the bed and taking off your shoes.
Unzipping your coat'it's an ankle-length coat.
Carrying a gallon jug of milk in your right hand.
Carrying a heavy chain in your right hand. It goes up and over your shoulder. It's fastened around your neck.
Here's a key to the lock. "Thank you." Unlock the padlock. Take off the chain. There's a marker on it, a tag, and something is written on it: FEAR.

Now there's a chain around your ankle, a heavy one. You have to drag it as you walk.

Someone hands you a key. Use it. What does the tag say?

LONELINESS.

You never realized! Another chain! ANGER. You turn and look for the Person with the keys. There He is. Ask Him if He has one for ANGER. As He hands you the key you notice that His hand is slightly deformed. It's an ugly scar, right in the middle of His hand.

Where is your coat'that long one? There it is. Slip into it. It covers you completely. Zip it. All the way up. Wait. It isn't a coat. It is Jesus Christ. How good this feels to be enveloped in this love. This softness. This warmth.

Anabel, I came to set you free. Let Me.