In pre-modern construction, according to Encyclopedia Britannica, “Buildings were laid out with astronomical precision in relation to points of the compass, with emphasis on the corners. Cornerstones symbolized ‘seeds’ from which buildings would germinate and rise.’”
Peter in today’s reading tells those who questioned the teachings that John and Peter proclaimed in the temple, “This Jesus is ‘the stone that was rejected by you, the builders; it has become the cornerstone.’”
The germination and rise of the seed that Jesus planted is the story that is told in the Acts of the Apostles by the early disciples. Their story testifies to how the Holy Spirit moved and guided them as it did Peter as he faced his inquisitors “filled with the Holy Spirit.” Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to see what are your “acts” as a disciple that testify to Jesus as your cornerstone.
—Fr. Chris Manahan, SJ, is director of the Jesuit Retreat House on Lake Winnebago, near Oshkosh, WI.