Kathy Hendricks in Give Us This Day writes that her home was her stronghold, sheltering her throughout her childhood and adolescence. “My parents built the house before World War II, and it was a strong and sturdy structure. This proved true in withstanding the elements of nature and the way our family weathered storms of grief and loss. My years at our home formed a foundation that has steadied me for decades. Perhaps this is why I am so fond of Jesus’ image of the house built on rock. I get it down to my core. The parable is not difficult to unravel. When we truly hear what Jesus teaches, we act accordingly. In doing so, we aren’t thrown off base by faith-straining experiences and events. However, what may not be so clear is how to remain true to this foundation. There is no disputing the profound impact of a nurturing family. The bedrock of faith, however, isn’t dependent on a street address or idyllic childhood. It continues to be formed, layer by layer, in various ways. Spiritual practice is one. Routines of prayer, reflection, and meditation expand the interior space in which love, mercy, compassion, and wisdom can grow. Immersion is another. We cannot, nor should we try to, escape the realities of the world with all of its societal and cultural sinkholes. The beauty of the Eucharist, the richness of our shared story, and the companionship of our Church family provide solid ground upon which to merge word and deed into an authentic act of faith.”