I can still remember the night I locked myself out of my house. My wife and son had just left for the evening, and I had gone outside to close up the garage. When I went back to the house, I discovered that the door had blown shut. Everything was tightly secured. I had no choice but to remain out in the chilly air until my family returned.

As I sat there for several hours, I thought about how dreadful it will be for all who are "locked out" of heaven for eternity. Having waited too long and having never received Christ, they will suddenly face the terrifying reality that the door of salvation is closed to them forever!

In the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus told of five who had prepared for the coming of the bridegroom. When he came, they "went in with him to the wedding" (Mt. 25:10). Later, however, when the five foolish virgins tried to go in, the door was shut! In response to their pleas, they heard him answer, "I do not know you" (v.12).

If Christ should return right now, millions would share a similar fate. What about you? Jesus said, "I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved" (Jn. 10:9). Have you accepted forgiveness through faith in the Savior? Don't risk being "locked out"!  — Richard De Haan