wise guy
"None of those who cry out, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of God but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven." —Matthew 7:21
The sandy soil of a Palestinian creek bed is rich, and it provides a brilliant array of beautiful flowers and grasses — yet, it is a deceptive location in which to build. Suddenly, the rainy season comes, the site is undermined, destroyed, and vanishes.
To some people, a self-indulgent life of pleasure, riches, and comfort seems like a desirable way to live (see Lk 8:14). However, this is not the will of the Father (Mt 7:21), "for nothing that the world affords comes from the Father. Carnal allurements, enticements for the eye, the life of empty show — all these are from the world. And the world with its seductions is passing away but the man who does God's will endures forever" (1 Jn 2:16-17). Therefore, "do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, so that you may judge what is God's will, what is good, pleasing and perfect" (Rm 12:2).
Your life must be on the solid foundation of Christ our Rock (1 Cor 3:11), His Church (Mt 16:18; Eph 2:20), and charity (Eph 3:17; 1 Tm 6:17-19). Otherwise, clear away whatever you have built, that is, reform your lives, and build a new life in the Spirit (see Acts 4:11ff).
Be a "wise guy." Build on Rock.
Prayer: Father, may I die to myself and love the poor with my generous sharing of this world's goods.
Promise: "A strong city have we; He sets up walls and ramparts to protect us." —Is 26:1
Praise: Charles had lost his marriage and nearly his life by having it his way. He turned to the Lord and started living by God's way.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.) (For a related teaching, order our book, Living in Reality, or our four tape audio series starting with AV 38-1 or two tape video series starting with V-38.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Richard Walling, July 7, 2004
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 19, 2004