Stomping Grounds
As you come to him, the living Stone - rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him - you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:4-5
Insight
The high school I went to many moons ago (which my daughters remind me of always) was recently torn down. As a fundraiser for the new state-of-the-art building taking its place, they sold bricks from my old stomping grounds. My parents surprised me by purchasing one and giving it to me as a present.
I know it might sound silly, but that brick is one of my most prized possessions. There's nothing spectacular about it; at best, on its own, it can now be used as a doorstop. But, combined with all the others, a building came together that formed and shaped countless students.
Life happened from a collection of bricks. Homecoming dances, food fights, basketball games, first kisses, friendships formed, and I guess...some learning took place too.
In today's passage, the Apostle Peter refers to believers as stones. At first glance, this description doesn't seem like a compliment. After all, rocks are dirty, grimy, heavy and aren't much good by themselves. Yet, if you place many stones together, something beautiful can be constructed.
The grandest buildings in the world, places that people travel many miles to see, happened because a builder believed that there is something worthwhile in joining stones together. A stone that would be useless becomes part of something valuable, beneficial, and makes an impression.
God joined living stones (us) into one temple (the Church) with Christ serving as our foundation. A building like that provides a place of protection and refuge. A structure like that serves as a beacon of hope and a gathering place for encouragement. A house like that becomes a hub of humility, service, and others-focused love.
And when each brick finds its spot, the world around it will be in awe and want to catch a glimpse of its beauty.
Reflection
What are you doing with your brick (your resources, abilities, relationships, time, etc.) to bring God glory and be a part of His Church?
Prayer
God, let me play my part in making Your name known today. Regardless of how big or small, my contribution might be, I will remember that it matters. Build me up so I can build others up. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
