Foundations

“Wow, look at that!” “Ooh, isn’t that beautiful?” “Oh my gosh that’s amazing!”

There are so many absolutely stunning structures throughout the world; some of them instantly recognizable. Rarely, if ever, have I heard such admiration for the foundations of those structures. Indeed, most foundations are not visible to the viewer, but remain hidden in the earth or are disguised as an architectural detail. We know the foundations are there, but we give most of our attention to the actual structures which have been built upon them. The visible part gets all the glory and admiration, but without the foundation it would not exist at all or at best be only temporary.




What Happens Without a Foundation?
As I thought about this subject, I found that the single most critical aspect of any building project is the laying of the foundation. A good example of a foundation that was not done correctly is the Leaning Tower of Pisa which began to sink as the construction of the third floor was begun. The builders had laid a foundation only a few feet thick in unstable soil to hold a structure which is 186 ft. tall and weighs approximately 14,500 tons! This means the design was flawed from the beginning, and everything built on the foundation has been in danger of being destroyed ever since.

How are You Building Your Foundation?
As exciting as it is to see the finished building, it is imperative that the proper foundation be laid. We are now about a month into the six month mentoring commitment, and these first few months are the “foundation” time. What are some of the “pillars” you and your mentee have been placing? Perhaps getting to know each other, hearing testimonies, learning to trust, listening, praying together, bearing one another’s burdens, laughing, having coffee, giving cards or small gifts, chocolate (always an indispensible pillar), obedience, accountability, loving God and learning to know Him more. All of the things which go into our foundation should make our relationship stronger and more able to hold a larger “structure”.

Build Slow
Once the foundation for the relationship is properly in place (however long that takes) then it can be built upon. If we rush the process, the outcome will be our own sad version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. We do not yet know what God will build during our six months together. We all hope for great “ooh” and “ahh” moments in April as we gather to celebrate what God has done among us, but remember that even if we are still working on the foundation, it is cause for great rejoicing, thanksgiving and praise!


“When the builders completed the foundation of the LORD’S Temple, the priests put on their robes and took their places to blow their trumpets…With praise and thanks they sang…to the LORD…Then all the people gave a great shout, praising the LORD because the foundation of the LORD’S Temple had been laid.” Ezra 3: 10a, 11


“We are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. We who believe are carefully joined together, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.” Eph. 2: 20-21

(written by Kim Collins)