Today Jesus speaks about the importance of building a house on a strong foundation so it can weather the storms. So too must our spiritual foundation be strong when life’s storms inevitably hit.

It is important for us to do an inspection of our “spiritual house” from time to time. In doing so we may see some cracks in our foundation that need repair. However, just like home repairs if we put them off, a small crack in the foundation can soon become a serious structural problem. In the Gospel today Jesus gives us guidance on how to strengthen our foundation: it is through hearing his teaching and then acting on it.

Are there any cracks in my “spiritual house” that need attention?

In what ways this week can I learn more about Jesus and act on his teaching?

—Brother Pat Douglas, S.J. lives and works at Creighton University, Omaha. He is also vocation promoter for the Wisconsin Province Jesuits.