Faith

I would like to reflect with you in each of the three terms used my Saint Paul

"Planted and built up in Jesus Christ, firm in the faith"

We can distinguish three images:

"planted" calls to mind a tree and the roots that feed it

"built up" refers to the construction of a house

"firm" indicates growth in physical or moral strength 

The first image is that of a tree which is firmly planted thanks to its roots

which keep it upright and give it nourishment

without those roots

it would be blown away by the wind and would die

What are our roots?

naturally our parents, families are very important elements of our personal identity

Christian faith is not only a matter of believing that certain things are true

but above all a personal relationship with Jesus Christ

It is an encounter with the Son of God that gives new energy to the whole of our existence

When we enter into a personal relationship with him

Christ reveals our true identity and in friendship with him

our life grows towards complete fulfilment

Just as the roots of a tree keep it firmly planted in the soil

so the foundations of a house give it long-lasting stability

Through faith

we have been built up in Jesus Christ

even as a house is built on its foundations

Sacred history provides many examples of saints who built up in Jesus Christ

means responding positively to God's call

trusting in him and putting his word into practice

Jesus himself reprimanded his disciples

"Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord', and do not do what I tell you?"

He went on to use the image of building a house

"I will show you what someone is like who comes to me

listen to my words and acts on them

That one is like a person building a house

who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock

when the flood came

the river burst against tht house but could not shake it 

because it had been well built

Build your own house on rock

just like the person who dug deeply

try each day to follow Christ's word

Listen to him as a true friend with whom you can share your path in life

with him at your side

you will find courage and hope to face difficulties and problems

and even to overcome disappointments and set-backs

You are constantly being offered easier choices

but you yourselves know that these are ultimately deceptive and cannot bring you serenity and joy

Only the word of God can show us the authentic way

and only the faith we have received is the light which shines on our path

Gratefully accept this spiritual gift which you have received from your families

strive to respond responsibly to God's call

and to grow in your faith

Do not believe those who tell you that you don't need others to build up your life

find support in the faith of those who are dear to you

in the faith of the Church

and thank the Lord that you have received in and have made in your own

p/s: but seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.