Cornerstone

Because I come from a family of builders, the concept of a cornerstone makes sense to me. Without a square starting point and a sturdy foundation, at best, the house will be out of kilter. At worst, it will collapse.

Our lives are like a building. Whether we realize it or not, every decision we make and every action we take arise from what we base our lives upon.

If I think no one will look after me but me, then I will try to build security with a career, money, and independence. If I believe good deeds will save me, then I will volunteer by giving time and money, but will constantly wonder if it’s enough.

When Peter wrote today’s verse, he was quoting the prophet Isaiah: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic” (Isaiah 28:16).

Peter knew — and wanted his readers to know — that we can build our lives on Jesus.

God sent Jesus to Zion, in other words, Jerusalem, which is the symbol of God’s presence. God laid the stone when Jesus laid down his life. His death reconciles us to God. When we surrender to Jesus, he becomes the precious stone on whom we build our lives. Jesus himself is the rock in the story he told about the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27).

So, we don’t need to panic when troubles come. Jesus is our sure foundation. He will never fail.

Lord God, I want to build my life on you. I know that every other foundation will eventually fail me. Be my rock and my precious cornerstone. Teach me to trust you and not panic, regardless of the circumstances I face. Amen.

Go Deeper — Is there an area of your life that you are afraid to entrust to Jesus today? Reflect on how wise it is to surrender all to him, because there is no surer foundation for life than him.