March 25, 2016
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:24-27
24 “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. 25The 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. 26But 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. 27The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
Questions for Reflection:
There are some iconic teachings found within the Sermon on the Mount. One of those passages wraps up Jesus teaching and it is our reading for today. What is the teaching? If you had to express it in your own words, how would you rephrase it?
Jesus tells the story of two men in this parable. What is similar about the two men? What is different? One of the similarities between the two men is that both face storms. The reality of life is that we all face storms. It rains on the godly and the ungodly. Yet it is the storms that reveal the quality of the work of the two builders. How have you seen storm give greater depth to your faith? What have you learned through the storms that you’ve faced?
In just two days, we kickoff Because 50 at One Life. During our first Because over five years ago, we shared with you how one family had learned to worship in the midst of one of life’s most significant challenges. Take a moment to watch the Barnard story below.
Open Your Eyes from Chris Weatherly on Vimeo.
In the parable we read today, the difference between the two builders was the foundation upon which they built their life. When we anchor our lives to the word of God, it allows us to withstand the storms we will inevitable face. For Brandon and Jessica, the loss they faced drew them closer to God. For me personally, the challenges I have faced have infused my worship with greater depth and meaning. I don’t just worship God when He blesses, but I can worship Him and trust Him more even in the difficulties. Spend time thanking God for the challenges you’ve faced. He is using those challenges to shape you.