For many people, the keys to a car signify independence and freedom. So to be told that they can't drive anymore would be humiliating. Imagine how hard it would be to surrender the cherished privilege of traveling when and where they like.

My friend Gary gave up his keys at the age of 26 after surgery for a brain tumor left him with epileptic seizures. During a period of 6 months, he went from flying supersonic Air Force jets to having his driver's license revoked because of the seizures. He mourned his loss of ability, but his faith enabled him to embrace these limitations as a means of knowing Christ more intimately. He came to understand that his relationship with Jesus was more important than any privilege or possession.

In the book of Revelation, the risen Christ identified Himself to the church in Philadelphia as "He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens" (Revelation 3:7). The Lord Jesus holds the keys to salvation and blessing.

When the time-bound keys that we have to give up are compared to the eternal keys that Christ holds, we bow at His feet in worshipful acceptance of His dealings. Jesus alone unlocks the door to everything that really matters.  — David C. McCasland