Our sermon this coming Sunday will explore the parable that Jesus told about the wise and foolish builders from Luke 6. This is a parable I remember from my childhood. We sang a song. We learned hand motions. If you join us in church or watch online, you’ll probably get to hear the song during the children’s message. The parable is simple and catchy, but I didn’t realize how profound the message was until many years later.
What is the foundation of your life? What are your top values? Principles? Metrics for success? In a sermon given at the Crystal Cathedral, Henri Nouwen spoke about being “the beloved of God.” In this sermon, he addressed three lies that we often allow to shape our lives: 1. I am what I have; 2. I am what I do; 3. I am what other people say about me. The problem with these LIES, these deceptions, is that they are not reliable. They are not fixed reference points.
The parable that Jesus tells is about finding my value, my purpose, and my self-worth, on top of a SOLID FOUNDATION, something that won’t shift or disappoint. In my own life, there have been many times when I have fallen into the trap of these lies, described by Nouwen. Have you ever put to much focus on what you have? The right car? A nicer house? Stylish clothes? Or other possessions? Have there been times in your life where you relied on the opinions of others to measure your value? Your popularity? How happy you should be?
From a cute parable, told in our childhood on a flannel board and with hand motions, to a life-stabilizing truth, the “House on the Rock” is an important reminder to me of the significance of my faith in Christ. When have you noticed that your “house” was or was not situated firmly on the rock? I’d love to hear from you.
Pastor Adam
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