Sure Foundation

I have noticed, driving in lower Stoney Creek, the construction of another apartment building. Just recently, they started to build walls after an extended period of time working on the foundation. As I reflected on the construction, the thought came to me, again, as to how vitally important foundations are. I think of the leaning Tower of Pisa as a lasting example of that fact.

Jesus ends the Sermon on the Mount by focusing on foundations. He tells a little parable to illustrate the importance of a sure foundation…

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.

When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.” Matthew 7:24-29 (NIV)

In our spiritual life, like in construction, we start from the bottom up. Having Jesus Christ as our foundation, through personal faith in His death and resurrection, gives us that important dynamic to build on. The Holy Spirit comes to take up His residence within us at the point of faith and with tools like personal study, teaching at the congregational level, the internet, good books, devotional materials and a variety of other avenues, we grow in our understanding of our relationship with Christ and others. We need to be careful for everyone who represents Christ does not represent Him accurately when it comes to the concepts of scripture.

Keep on building. Be patient, be observant and be faithful. As I have said so many times, it is a lifelong journey and we are projects that are under construction. As you pour the “concrete” things of faith, be assured the foundation will stand. It will never slip or fail. Rest on that sure foundation, my friends, as we start another week. It will stand forever.

God bless you – keep safe and keep in the love of Jesus – Pastor Ralph