There is story told out of Persia about a General who had the strange custom of giving condemned criminals a choice between the firing squad and the big, black door. As the moment of execution draws near, the spies are brought to the Persian General, who asks the question, "What will it be: the firing squad or the big, black door?" One spy, faced with this dilemma, hesitated for a long time. It was a difficult decision. He chose the firing squad. Moments later shots rang out confirming his execution.

The General turned to his aide and said, "They always prefer the known way to the unknown. It is characteristic of people to be afraid of the undefined. Yet, we give them a choice."

The aide said, "What lies beyond the big door?"

"Freedom," replied the general, "I've known only a few brave enough to take it."

I want you to know that on the other side of that door we call Christ there is freedom. The freedom and forgiveness from your sins awaits. Be brave enough to take it!