Freedom

This week, we celebrate our freedom as a nation. We value freedom in America. What does freedom mean to you? As Americans, we appreciate it. If you are a Christ Follower, freedom carries significant meaning.

Jesus said this about freedom….“If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32. What is the truth? Jesus was clear about the truth…. 6 “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6.

Last Sunday at Watermark, we took a close look at the parable Jesus shared about the Wise and Foolish Builder (Luke 6:46-49). The symbolism is rich in this parable. Jesus made clear that for us (the house) to experience freedom from sin, and ultimately divine judgement (rain and flood), it would be imperative to build our lives on Him (solid rock). If a house is built on anything less than solid ground, it will eventually collapse. Jesus wanted His Followers to call Him “Lord” or Leader and mean it - to be authentic and obedient to His leadership. To build our lives on His teaching and God’s Word.

What are you building your life on? I shared a story in my sermon about a house I considered buying years ago. While it looked good in photos, when I went to see it, I noticed it had some significant cracks in the mortar and bricks in it’s exterior. A longtime neighbor told me why those cracks were there. The home had been built on top of a stump dump and now, after some time, those stumps had deteriorated and the house was literally settling and sinking. It had a very poor foundation.

Is it possible for us to build our lives on something other than solid rock - Jesus Christ? Sure it is; people do it every day; but those things are just “stumps.” People can freely choose to build their lives on a career, or friends, or status, or possessions, or …. Jesus wanted His hearers to know that many were building their lives on empty religion. He wanted more from them. He wanted a relationship! He is seeking authentic, obedient Followers. Will you be wise, choosing to build your life on a firm foundation - Jesus Christ?