The Enduring Rock: Finding Stability in Christ
A Firm Foundation in Times of Trouble
You, O Lord, are close, and all your ways are truth.
From of old, I have known of your decrees, for you are eternal.
Cf. Ps. 119 (118):151-152
Stir up your power, O Lord,
and come to our help with mighty strength,
that what our sins impede,
the grace of your mercy may complete what is lacking.
Each of us longs for stability in a world that often feels unstable. It might be the loss of a loved one, an unexpected illness, unemployment, or the sense that the world’s foundations are shifting beneath our feet. To find true stability amidst the chaos, we need a foundation that won’t crumble around us. This is where Jesus steps in with his parable of two houses.
Jesus paints a vivid picture using something familiar to his listeners—a house built on sand versus a house built on a solid rock. The one built on sand seems sturdy enough at first glance, but it’s deeply unstable. When storms come, its foundation fails, and it crumbles. The house built on rock, however, stands firm. No matter how fierce the storm, it remains strong.
Jesus teaches us to be wise builders.
It had been set solidly on rock. (Matthew 7:25)
It’s easy to become attracted to philosophies that promise easier paths, less commitment, or a quick fix. They might seem enticing in the short term, like the shifting sands on the beach, always tempting but never offering lasting support.
Think of the proverbial life lessons like “Focus on today.” They sound appealing because they make a demanding world seem less daunting. However, these ideas don’t give us the unshakeable fortitude to face life’s trials.
So, what does it mean to build your life on the might of the living stone of Jesus? It means grounding our lives in his teachings and knowing that in him, we have everlasting truth. Just like themM the steadfast rock that stands firm against the tides of the world, Jesus’ teachings have endured for two thousand years and will endure forever (Matthew 24:35).
Knowing Jesus as the "way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6) gives us the courage to navigate life’s storms knowing we are anchored to something unshakable. If you’ve known the ground shaking beneath you, letting go of fleeting philosophies and embracing the timeless wisdom of Jesus leads to a life built on a foundation that will never crumble.
Perhaps you know someone whose life seems to have been shaken to its core. Think of the parable. They might be searching for answers, occupied in their sorrow. Tell them how Jesus’ teachings have been a source of strength in your own life, especially during difficult times. If you once wandered on shifting sands, share your journey of finding your solid ground in Christ. Sometimes, our personal testimonies can be the beacon of light that helps others discover hope and stability in a world of uncertainty.
Isaiah 26:1-6
Psalm 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27
What specific strategies or practices can help people build resilience and overcome challenges, drawing upon the wisdom of the parable?
## Finding Stability: An Interview on Building on Rock
**Interviewer:** Today we’re diving into the timeless wisdom of Jesus’ parable of the two houses. Joining us is Dr. Emily Carter, a theologian specializing in biblical parables and their application to modern life. Dr. Carter, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Carter:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** This parable about houses built on sand and rock resonates deeply with people facing uncertainty and hardship. Can you share what makes it so enduring?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. Jesus uses everyday imagery – something everyone understands – to illustrate a profound spiritual truth. We all yearn for stability, a firm footing in a world that often feels shaky. The parable reminds us that true stability comes not from external circumstances, but from building our lives on the unshakeable foundation of faith in Christ.
**Interviewer:** The text mentions “storms” that test these houses. What are some of these storms we might encounter in our lives?
**Dr. Carter:** These storms can represent any kind of trial or tribulation: loss, grief, illness, financial hardship, relationship breakdowns, even moments of doubt or questioning our faith.
**Interviewer:** How does choosing to build on “rock” actually work in practice? What does that look like day-to-day?
**Dr. Carter:** It means grounding ourselves in God’s Word, seeking his guidance through prayer, and living a life of love and service. Just as a house on a strong foundation can withstand powerful winds, a life rooted in Christ can weather any storm.
**Interviewer:** Many thanks for your insights, Dr. Carter. This powerful message offers hope and direction for navigating life’s challenges. Could you recommend any resources for those who want to explore this parable further?
**Dr. Carter:** Certainly! For a deeper look at Jesus’ parables, I would recommend the resource from Finding God Among Us, which offers explanations and summaries of 39 parables, including the parable of the two houses [[1](https://findinggodamongus.com/the-parables-of-jesus-explained/)].