The Cornerstone
Reading: Read Psalm 118
“The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.”
Collage Credit: Jerry Wheat
The Hallel or Hallelujah Psalms are those from 113 - 118. They are so-called because each contains the Hebrew word, Hallel, which means praise. Like all the Hallel Psalms, this one was used in the great festivals of the Temple, including Passover. It expresses thanksgiving for God's mercy in receiving a newcomer into the faith of Israel. Jesus and his disciples may have sung this Psalm before they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Isaiah used the metaphor of the cornerstone in 28:16. Those who put their trust in God will be secure. Jesus used this same figure of speech to warn the Pharisees in Matthew 21:42. Peter also made use of this picture, perhaps remembering Jesus' words to him, "On this rock I will build my church." This idea of a cornerstone formed part of Peter's defense to the Sanhedrin, and later was included in his letter to the Christians in Asia Minor.
A cornerstone represents continuity. The massive rock forming the cornerstone of the Temple helped to hold it in place. Jesus is the foundation on which we rest. He is the solid rock on which the church is built. Everything in life is held together by Jesus. He represents God's faithful relationship with us.
For Reflection: Who or what is the cornerstone of my life?
A Prayer Seed:
The church's one foundation Is Jesus Christ her Lord;
She is His new creation By water and the word;
From heaven He came and sought her To be His holy Bride;
With His own blood He bought her, And for her life He died.
Samuel J. Stone, 1866
