John 1:12

But to all those who let him in—to those who believe his is who he says he is; to those he grants the honor of being called his brothers and sisters. John 1:12 EFP

This text states two specific things that need to happen in order for us to have the honor of being counted as part of the family of God.  The steps are specific.  One is to let “the True Light” in—to allow the light to enter and dispel the spiritual darkness that fills our lives.  Revelation 3:20 speak of Jesus knocking at the door of our hearts, waiting for an invitation to enter.  God does not force his will on anyone.  He is the consummate gentlemen—he knocks and respects our choice not to let him in.  However, something very special awaits those who let the light in.

Secondly, John states that there is a faith component to this “letting him in.”  In other words, you don’t let anybody enter your house.  You don’t answer the door to any stranger that comes knocking.  And if you happen to open the door, or look through the peephole to identify the person seeking entrance, that does not ensure automatic entrance.  You have to have a level of trust that the person does not mean you harm or that he or she is more than just a mere nuisance.  To “believe in his name” means that we believe that the name he claims for himself is truly merited and fitting.  He claims to be sent from God—the Word; the true light from heaven.  Only when we are willing to confess that Jesus is truly the anointed One from God and make a choice to live lives worthy of his calling can we begin to experience the promised blessing.

And what is this promised blessing?  Only a person who has grown up in a tight knit family or the person who has always longed to be part of a united family understands the meaning of this text.  Being part of a loving and supportive family is a privilege of immeasurable value.  In spite of my many shortcomings, I love my family and I would lay down my life in a second to save them from harm.  It is what comes with belonging to my family.  Imagine the benefits that come with belonging to the brotherhood and sisterhood of the family of the Almighty!  Let him in!  Believe in Him!  Two simple yet profound actions that set in motion a life-changing process that alters the direction and substance of our lives.