The Cornerstone

Therefore, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: “Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem, a firm and tested stone. It is a precious cornerstone that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never be shaken."

Isaiah 28:16

In the midst of promising to judge his people for their unfaithfulness, the Lord offers a surprising word of hope. He is “placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem.” This “firm and tested stone” is “a precious cornerstone,” on which one can build without fear that one’s structure will come tumbling down.

Scholars differ in their interpretations of Isaiah’s original meaning for the cornerstone, but New Testament writers apply this image to Jesus (for example, Rom. 9:33; 1 Pet. 2:5-6). He is the cornerstone on which it is safe to build. He alone is the one in whom we can have full confidence.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: On what or on whom are you building your life, really? What other “cornerstones” compete for your ultimate trust, besides Jesus? What would it mean for you to build your life on Jesus?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that you are the true cornerstone, the one on whom I can build a solid, lasting, purposeful life. I know, in my head at least, that if I build upon you, I won’t be let down.

But I must confess that I am tempted to choose other cornerstones in addition to you. I want to build my life on the foundation of rationality, or family, or success, or on my ability to control my life. It’s not that I don’t want you to be a cornerstone of my life. But I find it easy to hedge my bets and to want several cornerstones.

Forgive me, Lord, for how easily I displace you. Forgive me for my failure to rely fully on you. Help me to put my full trust in you. May I build my life with you as my cornerstone. May every part of my life—work, family, friendships, play, service, worship—be founded on you. Amen.