The sandy soil of a Palestinian creek bed is rich, and it provides a brilliant array of beautiful flowers and grasses – yet, it is a deceptive location in which to build. Suddenly, the rainy season comes, the site is undermined, destroyed, and it vanishes.
To some people, a self-indulgent life of pleasure, riches, and comfort seems like a desirable way to live (see Lk 8:14). However, this is not the will of God (Mt 7:21), "for nothing that the world affords comes from the Father. Carnal allurements, enticements for the eye, the life of empty show – all these are from the world. And the world with its seductions is passing away but the man who does God's will endures forever" (1 Jn 2:16-17). Therefore, "do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, so that you may judge what is God's will, what is good, pleasing and perfect" (Rm 12:2).
Your life must be built upon the solid foundation of Christ our Rock (1 Cor 3:11), His Church (Mt 16:18; Eph 2:20), and charity (Eph 3:17; 1 Tm 6:17-19). Otherwise, clear away whatever you have built; that is, reform your lives, and build a new life in the Spirit (see Acts 4:11ff).
Be a "wise guy." Build on Rock.
| PRAYER: | Father, may I die to myself and love the poor with my generous sharing of this world's goods. |
| PROMISE: | "A strong city have we; He sets up walls and ramparts to protect us." –Is 26:1 |
| PRAISE: | St. Francis Xavier was the first Catholic missionary to the East Indies, and he converted many thousands to the faith. Some days he baptized so many people that at night he couldn't raise his arms due to fatigue (see Ex 17:12). |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College