Living Stones

Did you know, there is a type of plant called the Lithops, also known as a living stone, a type of succulent native to Southern Africa. It’s name is derived from the Greek words meaning “stone-like” which refers to its stone like appearance. These plants are strange looking plants and in my opinion are unattractive. However, these little plants, are relatively easy to grow, long lived (up to 50 years), and can flower pretty daisy like flowers, if the conditions are right. The health of these plants depend on sufficient bright light, low humidity, good soil drainage, and proper watering. 

In the passage, Peter refers to Jesus as the Living Stone, rejected by humans but chosen by God (v4). He refers to us Christians to be like Jesus, living stones. Peter also references the scripture in Isaiah 28:16, where it talks about Jesus being the chosen and precious cornerstone whom God has laid. God has established the foundation through Jesus. Since he is the first block laid down, anyone coming after him must follow in his steps.

This inspires and convicts me because I know how weak and prone to the flesh I am. But I find great courage in these verses as well because it says we are being built into a spiritual house by God himself (v5). It is so special to me that God does the work of building and shaping us. He is intricately involved in our growth. What a blessing!

Our role as living stones is to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus. How can we do this? Peter goes on in the rest of the chapter and book explaining how we ought to live godly lives. We declare his praises. We abstain from sinful desires. We live good lives so others may see and glorify God. We show respect for everyone. We submit to others out of reverence to God. We live Godly lives though we are in a worldly society. All of these things and more we get to do. It is a privilege to serve the living God. God already sees me like he sees Jesus; chosen, royal priesthood, holy, his special possession. I don’t have to earn that. When I have this clarity of who I am because of Christ, the only way of living that makes sense is for my life to be a sacrifice. 

If I am speaking honest, it is easy for me to not think this way. Just like the succulent my heart needs the right conditions and care to be the living stone I want to be to reflect Jesus. I need proper spiritual light, water, drainage, and temperature. I need to keep my eyes and mind focus on him as chief cornerstone. Be honest with myself and ask “how can my life as a living stone align with what God has already established through Jesus?”