Wednesday November 4, 2020

Begin this new day by praying this prayer out loud. As you are able, consider kneeling as a physical expression of your commitment to Jesus as Lord of your life and the one you desire to lead you this day. Alternatively, you might consider placing a hand over your heart as you pray this prayer.

God of rescue and restoration, thank You for Your great and beautiful mission in the world. Here I am Lord, fill me with Your Spirit and send me.

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.
Matthew 7:24-27

Other Jewish teachers of the time might have used a similar metaphor (house built on stone or sand), with regards to following God’s commands. Here, however, Jesus refers to his own words the way other Jewish teachers referred to God’s law. By doing so, he implies that he is God’s prophetic and authoritative spokesperson. Hearers must accept all of Jesus’ teachings, including those that demand we submit to his lordship, or reject him altogether. Jesus is not one way among many; he is the standard-bearer.

Building a house on sand would be quicker and easier at the beginning of course. But building it the right way, on the stone would stand the test of time.

When storms come, and they will, have you built your faith on sand or stone? What can you do to prepare and reinforce your faith?

When you are finished with your time of reflection, close out this time with this prayer.

Father, help me to live this day to the full,
being true to You in every way.
Jesus, help me to give myself away to others,
being kind to everyone I meet.
Spirit, help me to love the lost,
proclaiming Christ in all I do and say.
Amen.