“Everyone who comes to me, hears my words, and puts them into practice is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock” (Luke 6:47-48).
Some lives are sadly superficial; they find their greatest joy in the senses and are entirely occupied with trivial things, like children playing without concern for the greater meaning of existence. There is no deep thought, no elevated feeling, or true purpose in them. This painful superficiality is one of the most evident marks of our age, where seriousness, reverence, and dedication are clearly in decline.
Anything is better than spending life chasing after fleeting and empty novelties. It is much more valuable to be like a desolate tree, exposed on the plain, bent by the storm and stripped by the cold and wind, if that leads us to deepen our roots and strengthen our character. Better this than to be a shrub green on the outside, but with shallow roots, unable to sustain itself in the face of life’s challenges.
If we truly want to ascend with Jesus, we need to take seriously the instructions of Jesus’ Father, which are His commandments. Whoever understands the value of eternity also understands the value of obedience. Following God’s commandments is more than a duty; it is the only path to a meaningful and lasting life, rooted in what is eternal and not in the superficialities of this world. -Adapted from W. L. Watkinson. See you tomorrow, if the Lord allows us.
Pray with me: Dear God, I recognize that in a world full of superficialities, it is easy to be drawn to fleeting things that add nothing to the soul. Help me to seek a life with deep roots in You, a life that is not just appearance, but that reflects a character shaped by Your truth and holiness. I do not want to be like those who chase after emptiness; I want to live with purpose and meaning, focused on what is eternal.
My Father, today I ask You to plant my heart firmly in Your commandments. Give me the strength to face the storms of life with the confidence that they will strengthen me and make me grow. May my joy not come from the distractions of the world, but from Your presence and the blessings of obeying Your Word. Teach me to value what is lasting and to reject what is fleeting.
Oh, eternal Lord, I praise You because Your will is perfect and Your truth is unchanging. Thank You for giving us commandments that not only guide us but root us in a life that pleases You and reflects Your love. Help me to live with reverence and seriousness, walking with Jesus and always seeking Your glory above all. Your beloved Son is my eternal Prince and Savior. Your mighty Law is more valuable to me than all the treasures of the world. Your commandments are like seeds planted in my heart, which blossom into constant joys. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
