1ST WEEK OF ADVENT

The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew.

Storms are inevitable, both in nature and in life. To survive them, Jesus says, we need to build our lives on the firm foundation of his word (Matthew 7:25-26). But how do we do that, especially when we’re being buffeted by rain and wind? Since it’s Advent, let’s take a few minutes to reflect on the storms that Mary and Joseph encountered and how their example can help us to build our own lives on the “rock” of Christ (7:24).

Mary and Joseph faced an unplanned pregnancy, an uncomfortable journey to Bethlehem, and a hurried flight to Egypt. The stories in the Bible don’t offer much detail, but that doesn’t mean those situations were simple to navigate or that trust in God came easily. Mary and Joseph were human like us. They probably faced a host of questions, emotions, and fears, just as we can. But because the Lord was already their firm foundation, they listened to his word, trusted that he knew what was best for them, and did what he was asking. And through their obedience, God saved the world.

The storms of life can be frightening, and suffering and hardship can give way to real loss. But the Lord is with us always, speaking to us, showing us how to navigate each situation. As we imitate Mary and Joseph by listening to God and obeying his voice, we can trust that he will keep our “houses” from collapsing (Matthew 7:25). Not only that, but our faith in him will be even stronger when we face the next storm.

Today, spend a few extra minutes meditating on one of the Holy Family’s storms and how they reacted to it. Put yourself in their shoes and imagine what they must have felt or thought. Then think of a “storm” you might be experiencing now. How can you listen, trust, and obey God as they did? How can you make your foundation in Christ even stronger than it is right now?

Let’s ask for the grace to respond to the turbulence in our lives as Mary and Joseph did. Like them, may we always be that wise man or woman who builds their lives on the unshakable “rock” of the Lord and his word!

“Lord, you are my foundation. Help me build my life on you!”

Isaiah 26:1-6
Psalm 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27
Matthew 7:21, 24-27