Rock Versus Sand

“The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on rock.” —Matthew 7:25

I wish I had the skills of a house builder, a carpenter, or even a handyman, but I don’t. The closest I’ll ever come to building a house is setting up a tent on a level campground. Even then, I know nothing I lash together would have a chance of enduring a storm. Still, Jesus’ image here is clear, even to a non-builder like me. Even if we never construct a physical shelter for ourselves, we can build our lives on rock by putting Jesus’ words into practice. Which words? All of them! Any of them! Pick something he said or a theme he kept returning to, and start putting it into action. Care for the poor, the hungry, and lonely, and the grieving. Forgive those who have hurt you. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Do not worry about tomorrow, because God has every hair on your head counted and knows what you need. Speak out against exploitation and oppression. Love your neighbor as yourself. If we start with any of these, when the storms of life inevitably come, we may be shaken, but we won’t collapse like a house built on sand.

For reflection: What foundations in your life are strong now? What is more wobbly and needs strengthening?