Matthew 7:24-29 

24 Those people who are listening to Me, those people who hear what I say and live according to My teachings—you are like a wise man who built his house on a rock, on a firm foundation. 25 When storms hit, rain pounded down and waters rose, levies broke and winds beat all the walls of that house. But the house did not fall because it was built upon rock. 26 Those of you who are listening and do not hear—you are like a fool who builds a house on sand. 27 When a storm comes to his house, what will happen? The rain will fall, the waters will rise, the wind will blow, and his house will collapse with a great crash. 28 With that Jesus finished His teaching, and the crowds were amazed by all He had said. 29 But Jesus taught in His own name, on His own authority, not like the scribes.

Matthew 7:24-29

24 Those people who are listening to Me, those people who hear what I say and live according to My teachings—you are like a wise man who built his house on a rock, on a firm foundation. 25 When storms hit, rain pounded down and waters rose, levies broke and winds beat all the walls of that house. But the house did not fall because it was built upon rock. 26 Those of you who are listening and do not hear—you are like a fool who builds a house on sand. 27 When a storm comes to his house, what will happen? The rain will fall, the waters will rise, the wind will blow, and his house will collapse with a great crash. 28 With that Jesus finished His teaching, and the crowds were amazed by all He had said. 29 But Jesus taught in His own name, on His own authority, not like the scribes.

Devotional Content

The celebration of Christmas Day also brings us to the close of the Sermon on the Mount.  These core teachings of Jesus have given shape to our lives, challenged us daily, and helped us see well Beyond the Manger of the Lord.  Now it closes with one final invitation.  It is an invitation for every individual and every family.  It is an invitation for today and an offer for the ages.   Build your house on the solid rock of Jesus Christ!  Build from the foundation up!  Build with vision, hope, mercy, and compassion.  Welcome the stranger, offer hospitality, live as people who share life freely.

“Now, when Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.”

I continue to be astonished, challenged, and blessed by the teachings of Jesus that move me Beyond the Manger and into the world.  Let’s walk together!

Amen.