“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”
— Matthew 7:24-25
On November 25, 1895, a cornerstone of ice was laid in Leadville, Colorado—the beginning of the largest ice palace ever built in America. In an effort to bolster the town’s sagging economy, the citizens staged a winter carnival. On New Year’s Day of 1896, the town turned out for the grand opening.
The immense palace measured 450 x 320 feet. The towers that flanked the entrance were 90 feet high. Inside was a 16,000-square-foot skating rink. But by the end of March, the palace was melting away, along with the hopes of Leadville. You see, the tens of thousands of visitors who were anticipated to come did not, and those who did come spent very little, leaving the town’s economy in shambles.
Many Christians today also build their own “ice palaces” that eventually melt away. Perhaps they’ve trusted in money for their security. Maybe they’ve become codependent with another person to the point where they trust in them for everything. Or, it’s possible they’ve allowed their possessions—their home, their car, or their “toys”—to become their idols.
Each of these things will melt away when summer comes. Money won’t last forever; people will let you down; and your possessions won’t follow you to heaven! So instead of building castles of ice, build your life on the rock of Jesus Christ so that when summer comes, you’ll be standing strong!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to reveal to you things you’ve built your life on that have no eternal significance.
Questions for Thought
What are some “ice palaces” that many people build their lives on today that eventually melt away?
How can you be diligent to keep your life founded on the rock of Jesus Christ instead of temporary things?