Jesus said, “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like the wise man who built his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24 He went on to say, that even after flood and winds, the house does not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. Of course, also the parable suggests what happens if said house is built in the sand. I remember the song we sung in Sunday school growing up. How about you?

Jesus, during this sermon on the mount, was teaching His followers who had gathered, many things, including the Lord’s Prayer, the Beatitudes and God’s laws. All of these were words to heed, and words to practice: a foundation to build our faith on.

How often have we, ourselves, really needed to consider this foundation during recent trials and tribulations? Politics, pandemic, storm destruction, much of the world in peril, in general. I don’t know about you, but I have had to remind myself a few times recently, in my interactions with colleagues, friends in my life, and on social media, and even family during hardships … (including my wife and patience with our dogs), not to judge one another. To do unto others, bear good fruit, ask-seek-knock, knowing that the Father gives good things to me and I can share the good with others around me, as well.

We are still in Virginia, writing you from Carol’s parents home, while her dad progresses in getting stronger. Being here, also reminds me a lot of foundations as well. Her folks have been faithful through many seasons of their lives together, including a home they built 55+ years ago, where they raised a family, and built long lasting relationships in their neighborhood and community. SO many examples of a home built upon a sure foundation. One that takes work in keeping it strong and healthy for the storms that come along. And believe me this house has seen its share of hurricanes, rain and wind storms. I am thankful for Jesus’ direction on where to build our house!

Speaking of building a house, VOB is in the process of doing just that. For the very first time, we are solely responsible for sponsoring a home to be built for a very special family you’ve often heard about, over the years. This is one of our very dear adopted families, who’ve had a lot of tragedy in their lives, including losing a daughter “Karen” to an aggressive cancer, losing their father during an armed robbery at his work, and a house fire that destroyed everything. An opportunity came up where a couple of the daughters acquired a plot of land they were able to purchase, in full. VOB has collaborated with a house-building ministry, Baja Christian Ministries, to build the family a small home on that land, where they will raise their children and be able to call it their own, for generations to come. This will be a house built on solid ground, in the Spirit of the Lord, to weather any storm.

p.s. for those who are visual, here is a photo of the foundation that was just poured this past week. It’s the first slab on the new site for the family home. And the floor plan that will be set in place soon. We look forward to showing you photos of the finished project!

Also if you would like to invest in this ongoing project let us know!!!