God’s Own People

This meditation is based on a passage for April 14, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: 1 Peter 2:1-10

Reflection and Question: The writer here is addressing Christians who have abandoned the common religion of their society. Their acceptance of Christ made them, like Jesus, a stone that the builders (their neighbors) rejected. I imagine the speaker turning a rock over and over in his hand as he dictates the consoling word that, with Christ, his listeners have become the chosen cornerstone. They are God’s own people. This assurance still sustains the marginalized, like GLBT Christians, who have been rejected by society like the listeners here. When have you needed reassurance that you are among God’s people?

Prayer: Sustaining Spirit, our ancestors received Your mercy and thereby became Your royal priesthood. As You did for them, in our time rid us of all guile, insincerity, envy and slander. Make us the living stones who are acceptable to You. Amen.