In 1174, Italian architect Bonnano Pisano began work on a 185-foot bell tower for the Cathedral in Pisa, Tuscany, in west-central Italy. There was just one little problem—even before it was completed, the builders discovered that the soil was much softer than anticipated and the whole structure began to tilt. The project lasted for 199 years and was plagued with interruptions, as engineers sought solutions to the leaning problem until they finally realized that nothing could be done to straighten the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
The problem wasn't bad design, poor workmanship, or inferior materials. Instead, the issue was unstable sandy soil underneath the city of Pisa where the famous monument was built. Interestingly, the word "Pisa" means "Marshy Land," which explains the issue. This teaches us that a faulty foundation can cause problems not just in buildings but in our lives as well.
Many problems in life arise from having a poor and shaky foundation. A person might struggle academically if they lack a solid understanding of the fundamentals of a subject. A lack of affection in early childhood can lead to emotional instability. Similarly, a poor grasp of the basics can hinder achieving expertise in a skill or an art.
Laying a Strong Foundation
We have been with the Lord over the last few days, listening to His 'Sermon on the Mount'. This is the message and exhortation delivered by Jesus today. The higher the aims and achievements, the greater the basics must be! The taller the building, the deeper the foundation must be laid!
The Lord calls us to examine the foundation of our lives. Have we built on shaky sand or solid rock? As we know, the laying of every foundation requires excavation and digging! As part of the renovation, you will soon see some digging in front of our facility here in Easton.
If we want to establish a strong foundation, we must go through the process of excavation. Can we delve deeper into our lives to identify areas that need healing and the Lord's touch? Can we dig deeper into our minds to understand our motivations in life and what we truly desire? Can we excavate deeper into our hearts to examine our desires? Can we delve deeper into our relationships and determine whether they are genuine or superficial?
Finding Stability
Some of us may feel that we have already established successful lives and can take pride in our careers, stable family life, financial security, and enjoyable lifestyle. However, it's important to assess the strength of each of these aspects as suggested by the Lord.
Can my family life withstand misunderstandings, constant quarrels, and breakdowns?
Can my spiritual life withstand doubts, fears, and discouragements?
Can my professional life withstand failures and disappointments?
Can my social life withstand rejection, humiliation, and indifference?
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is renowned as one of the world's wonders. It has stood for over 800 years. The tower would not have survived without constant repairs, concrete reinforcements around the structure, and renovation work undertaken later. Let's ensure that our lives don't tilt like this tower with a faulty foundation. Instead, let them be secure and stable with "Jesus, the Firm Foundation!"
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