When constructing a building that will last, particular attention must be given to the foundation. Its materials and placement are critical for the building as a whole to hold together over time under a variety of circumstances. Once the structure is designed and measured out, the cornerstone is placed and all other stones are then placed in reference to that one stone. If things become crooked, or the lines become unsure, you can always look back to the cornerstone to make corrections.
See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.
I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line; hail will sweep away your refuge, the lie, and water will overflow your hiding place. Isaiah 28:16-17
God says through Isaiah that He will be laying the Cornerstone and Paul picks up on this declaring that Jesus is that Cornerstone of the Church. Peter also, declaring Jesus a Living Stone, quotes the Isaiah passage affirming Christ as that cornerstone
The apostles and prophets, aligned with Christ, became our foundation. And now we are built on top of them, on their foundation, and we also are aligned with Christ as the cornerstone.
Christ brings Truth. He brings Love. As incarnate God, He brings the example and power of His sacrifice. He is the reference point for the Church, and we are that Church. When we slip off the mark or waver in our purpose, we need only to look to Him. Our strength and unity come from Jesus and the Spirit that dwells within. The precision of our faith and the integrity of our fellowship are anchored in Him.
May we live the life we are designed for, creating firm footing for those who will continue to build when we’re gone. And may His Church continue to rise strong and beautiful.
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of His household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone. In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit. Ephesians 2:19-22
