We are living stones. That is an image not on my radar. I may be living and breathing, seeing and smelling– but as a stone? Not so much. But when you play out the metaphor here, with Jesus being the cornerstone, I’m thrilled to be a living stone.
We’ve all seen buildings with a prominent cornerstone. It will often have the year engraved. Wikipedia defines “cornerstone” (or foundation stone or setting stone) to be “the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.” Now think about how this impacts us when we think of Jesus as the chief cornerstone. (Ephesians 2:19-22).
Jesus is our foundation. We rely upon him for everything. Or do we? Do we sometimes try to take control of situations only to be disappointed? Do we try to make a decision without counsel from Jesus only to realize it was the wrong one? So many times we do these things without giving it another thought. But we should know better. Jesus is our foundation. Without him, we would crumble.
So what do living stones look like? I am one so I’d like to know what I should see in the mirror. This passage tells us God is using the living stones to build his spiritual temple. We will be added to the foundation Jesus has begun to build a glorious future for us and other believers.
How does it make you feel when you read verse 9 and realize God has chosen you. “You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” Think about how you can show others God’s goodness. What types of activities can you be involved in that will keep you shining in his wonderful light? Who do you know that needs to hear about God’s goodness?
This passage is not without warning. There are temptations surrounding us daily to keep us from the life God intends for us. We are to keep away from worldly desires that will “wage war” against our very souls. That doesn’t sound pleasant, and it could be why we often have the trials we do. We have left ourselves open to the world, and evil has crept in ever so silently to wreak havoc.
We need to remember “whose” we are. We are God’s chosen, his possession. He made us and all that is around us. We should live a life of gratitude and praise. We should be honored for this special opportunity to be living stones and building his church on earth. We should look forward to each new opportunity, trusting God with our life.
Hold on to this promise: “anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.”
Let’s pray. Father God, as you were rejected by people, may I never reject you. Forgive me when I rush past you trying to make my own decisions. I thank you for the wisdom and discernment you do give me when making big decisions or life commitments. I trust you will give me all that I need to be a good witness to you here in Mexico. Use our ministry and our business to reach people with your love and support. Thank you for your new mercies everyday. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
