40 to 40 (Gratitude 10)

I took this picture last summer while I was on a walk. I am drawn to the beauty and simplicity of it.

But what I really love about it is that it represents a place of invitation, of going in. It is an open gate.

I am thankful that God always leaves the gate open for us to come back when we have sinned or messed up. I am thankful that He refused to let the gate slam shut on anyone.

The sobering thought is that when we are outside the gate, we often don't realize it or we realize it and are too afraid to take the steps needed to go inside.

So, I am thankful for God's open gate/open door policy with His children.