O Key of David
“These are the words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David . . . ”
Here is the description of a church that has an open door of opportunity. No wonder the symbolism is of Christ as a key. Anyone who has a key to our house has a certain amount of power. We do not give keys to people who cannot be trusted. In Isaiah 22, God expresses his disgust with those who misuse the power given to them. Then he speaks of Hezekiah's steward Eliakim, in verse 22: "I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David; he shall open, and no one shall shut, he shall shut, and no one shall open." Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God's promises, the key to the presence of God.
Ancient Philadelphia was a city of strategic importance to the spread of the gospel. It was on a direct trade route to the highlands of Asia Minor. The church had many opportunities to preach and teach. For us, the open door also leads to opportunities for service. An open door can be the way to escape captivity and darkness.
One other message is important during Advent. Verse 11 says: "I come quickly." We never know when Christ will return, or we will be called to meet God. Watchfulness is necessary if we want to enjoy the peace and security which only Christ can give.
Reflection: Am I using my open door to God?
Prayer Seed:
O Key of David, Scepter over the house of Israel,
you open and no one can close, you close and no one can open:
come to set free the prisoners who live in darkness
and the shadow of death.
The O Antiphons
