Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Jesus is identified in 1st Peter 2:4 as “the living stone.” In our last visit I pointed out that being the living stone represents the possibility of relationship. Surely Jesus enjoyed a relationship with God the Father throughout eternity past. That’s why God chose Him. He was “precious to him.” In John 17 Jesus prayed, “Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began…the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.” God the Father knew Jesus could be trusted to fulfill the mission He sent Him on. Jesus is also identified as the cornerstone and capstone, both referring to the place of honor and strength in the foundation of His church. As the living stone He identified with us by suffering for us, leaving us an example that we should follow in His steps. As He endured this suffering, He stayed true to His character and calling. “‘He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.’ When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate, when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly” (verses22-23). As a result of His suffering, and ultimately bearing “our sins in his body on the tree,” He made it possible for us to “die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds (we) have been healed.” No wonder Peter declared that when we trust in Jesus He becomes to us the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls. As believers we are secure for time and eternity. Praise God!