Reflection: Impressive Stones 

 The reign of King Solomon is the pinnacle of the Old Testament story. Impressive as his father David was in battle, Solomon was all the more, in wisdom, peace and prosperity. I thought there were a lot of cranes in Melbourne these days, but imagine the 13-year construction site in Jerusalem with all those Lebanese cedars arriving (mmmm, cedarwood!) and the sawing of gigantic white limestones…to say nothing of hot smells and loud banging of bronze, copper, tin and goldsmiths. How proud was the whole nation with their wonder-of-the-world…and then, how crushed when it was destroyed.* But that’s when people started realising there was another king and another temple project on the move. Prophets mysteriously hinted that this king and temple would last forever. 

Israel’s always been in love with their temples and what they stand for.  

“Look, Teacher! [says one of Jesus’ disciples as they’re leaving the temple]  

What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!”  

Their teacher is not just on a different page.  

He’s of another kingdom. He knows he’s that mysterious king come to build a forever temple. 

“Do you see all these great buildings?” replied Jesus.  

“Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.”**  

All the impressive building in Solomon’s day and every magnificent temple stone was just a prelude to what Jesus is building. I will build my church and all the forces of hell will be powerless to destroy it.***  

Prayer: 

I’m imagining stepping into the most splendid cathedral; gazing into a soaring dome. I’m picturing people (your quality stones), those with whom I worship and millions with whom I don’t. Inspire me today with the vast expanse and stunning beauty of the church you are building, Lord Jesus. 

Footnotes 

*2 Kings 25:8-17 (587BC…then rebuilt 515BC…and destroyed 70AD) 

**Mark 13:1-2 

***Matthew 16:18 paraphrased