A Solid Foundation
“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 the house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”
Matthew 7:24-25
Over the last couple of years, I started noticing cracks in the walls of my house. Along with them, I noticed doors not properly closing. Having owned the house for more than 10 years, I had no idea what was happening. After a professional consultation, it became evident that the foundation underneath it was sinking.
The past year’s droughts, coupled with poor soil composition, weakened the foundation and jeopardized the structure. I learned that when the house was constructed, it was built on a concrete slab without any substantial footings or piers. Without piers in place to anchor the foundation, it was a matter of time before the house would be compromised.
As the work was being done to repair the foundation, I did not realize how extensive it would be. Jackhammers, shovels and hydraulic lifts were just the beginning. Deep holes were dug inside and outside of the house as the new piers were driven deep into the ground. The workers were intentional and precise. They knew exactly what it would take to fix what was broken. The goal was to restore the structural integrity of the house’s foundation.
Jesus is in the same line of work. His goal is to help us right what is wrong with our foundation. Sin calls into question our structural integrity. With Lent now in our rear-view mirror I realize the significance of the season that has passed.
Historically, Lent is a time to examine our foundations. For many of us, there are cracks in our “foundation.” The doors that are ajar need serious adjustments. Lent provides us a time to stop, be still and listen — even for a minute — to reestablish our spiritual footings. A season of prayer, fasting and study helps in the restoration process.
Easter is a season of hope. The work has been done. The emptiness of the tomb reminds us that we are no longer bound to the ways of this world. Life as we knew it has died and Jesus, the rock of our foundation, has set us free.
“Hallelujah, He is risen. The Lord is risen indeed.”
