FOUNDATION

Matthew 7:24-27

In an authoritative conclusion to what is commonly known as the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gives an illustration contrasting two men, each building a house.  The difference, is the foundation on which each house is set.  In this case, the foundation represents our core beliefs, the basic statements and teachings that represent our most firmly held principles.  The house is a representation of who we are in totality.  The house that is built represents our character.  Who we are as a person is shaped by the beliefs and principles that we live out.  It also represents our life on this earth, including our professional and familial roles.  Finally, it represents the state of our eternal soul.  The rains, wind, and flood represent adversity.  These could be trials of character, disappointments, or suffering.  They could represent circumstances, ideas or philosophies that shake our core beliefs, or unexpected chaos that threatens the order of life we have established.  We will all experience the storms of life.  Various trials, some painful, will come.  It is our foundation that will determine whether who we are as a person, and what our life contains, will withstand this tribulation.
Only the teachings of Jesus provide a firm foundation.  When ideas threaten to shake our faith, the words of Jesus shed light on our eternity.  When circumstances threaten our security, health, or provision, it is the teachings of Jesus that we have implemented in our lives that provide firm support.  When chaos threatens to shatter our world, it is the things we have done according to the Word of God that will remain in order.  Throughout life’s various trials, the things that are unstable are stripped away, and only those things that are anchored in Christ will remain.  And in the end, only those souls that have been converted will receive everlasting life.  Today, whether in calm or stormy weather, may you build your character, your thoughts, your whole life on the Logos, The Word of God, and may you be empowered by the Holy Spirit to stand and remain blameless before God the Father at the end of the age.