Read: Mark 12:1-12
The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. (v. 10)
Have you ever created something, brought it almost to completion, and then discovered that you made a terrible mistake, a flaw so foundational, so basic, it undermines the whole structure? Were you willing to admit the mistake and start over?
In his ministry, Jesus experienced rejection, most strongly from the experts in God’s law, the scribes and the Pharisees. Jesus was clear that this rejection didn’t reflect a mistake on his part but theirs. They laid a crooked foundation for their understanding, misaligned by wrong motive. Instead of loving God, they loved their position in society. Instead of offering the fruits of their efforts to God, they claimed the work for themselves. And they despised anyone who threatened their status.
The psalmist prophesied of a time when God’s own workmanship would build his house, and he would dwell among his people. It would rest on a foundation stone that God created yet ironically was rejected by those who thought they could build this house themselves (Ps. 118:22). This rejected stone would become the indispensable cornerstone of God’s house, but only after it had first been cast aside. By quoting this psalm, Jesus showed that his rejection was part of God’s plan. He was opposed not because he wasn’t that cornerstone, but because he was and is.
As you pray, consider discouragements you have faced in your efforts to do God’s will. Give them to God and ask God to guide you in discerning how to follow him.
Fred Van Dyke is a conservation biologist dedicated to the care for God’s creation. In this role Fred has served government agencies, private consulting firms, and academic institutions doing research, management, and teaching in conservation science. He is also the author of two books on faith and environmental stewardship.
