the stone the builders rejected

Hendrick van den Broeck (1519-1597), "The Resurrection of Christ", Sistine Chapel

Easter Sunday (April 8, 2007)
Psalm 118

"The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes" (vv. 22, 23).

Few were enamored of Jesus during his lifetime: neither the power brokers, nor the religious leaders, nor the populace. The same holds true today. Yet in his love, God has used our very obstinance, ignorance, and animosity to open for us a way to righteousness. Righteousness is not a popular word these days. It ranks far below tolerance, privacy, and prosperity on the applause meter. Yet righteousness is at the top of God's list.

The poor, disenfranchised, and oppressed are the only ones who really get it. They understand the value of righteousness, because they suffer so much the lack thereof.

I had lunch just a couple of days ago with a Bosnian and a Lebanese. I'll bet they have a thirst for righteousness. I'm going to ask them about this the next time we're together. In Jesus there is a way forward for Bosnia, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the Sudan, Russia, et. al. There is a way forward for us too! A marvelous (v. 23) thing indeed...