Readings:
1 Corinthians 10:14-22
Luke 6:43-49
Reflection:
Whenever I read Matthew’s account of the parable of the house built on rock, I feel guilty about living near the ocean where it was necessary to build on sand. I much prefer Luke’s account and his focus on the strength of the foundations, rather than the environment. In other words, the power of our commitment is questioned – a commitment only made apparent by the work of our hands.
The tree and the vine both bear fruit while the shrub and the bramble do not, yet a tree that bears no fruit is worthless. The foundation must be strong yet also built upon. We are asked to put Jesus’ words into practice (v.47), to listen and act.
Ironically, as I write this and worry about the foundations of my warm and solid house, a monsoon has affected the lives of 30 million people in Pakistan. 30 million people. The number – more than the entire population of Australia – staggers me. At least 1100 people have died and 500,000 people, just under the populace of Tasmania, have been left homeless. Solid foundations are out of reach for much of humanity, those who live without the luxuries that little old me takes for granted.
Do I call, Lord, from the abundance of my heart (v.45), or the safety and security of my solid house, far away from the natural disasters of the world? Do I reach out to feed the stranger, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless? How committed am I really to the way of the Cross?
Angela Marquis works as a chaplain in a Tasmanian local primary school and with the Passionists at St Joseph’s Hobart Parish. She completed a Master of Theology in 2021 and is currently studying Biblical Hebrew with the Israel Institute. She enjoys rock climbing and long leisurely beach walks with her husband and four-legged daughter.