Rocks and Stones - the Way, the Truth, the Life - the Mission

Scripture: Acts 7:55-60  • Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16  • 1 Peter 2:2-10  • John 14:1-14

This week's readings contain the imagery of rocks and stones - the stoning of Stephen, the rock of refuge and fortress in Psalm 31, and living stones building a spiritual house, believing on the living stone which is the cornerstone the builders rejected. See "And then the Stones Cried Out, " by Native American writer Coyote Terry Aleck and Melanie Delva.

These passages are read together with this week's gospel account in which Jesus tells us that he goes to prepare a house for us - that in his Father's house there are many mansions, and that he is the Way, the Truth and the Life. That no one comes to the Father except by him.

Is Jesus talking about things to come, the here and now, or both? See  "Building the Kingdom, Stone by Stone," by The Rev. Dr. Susanna Met.

Is Jesus inclusive or exclusive in his statement that no one comes to the Father except by him? Consider "No Power Shortage Here, " by The Rev. Dr. Fred A. Anderson.