Living Stone Fireplace

House hunting can be both exciting and exhausting. When we purchased our home 15 years ago we looked at many nice homes. In the den of the house we chose is a particular wall that won my heart. In the middle of this wall is a giant floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. Beside the fireplace on either side are built-in bookshelves. This house is not as large as some of the others we considered nor did it contain all of the amenities found in some. Yet this house more than met our needs and we loved the den. Over the years this one room has become such a joy to me.
The fireplace in the den was built with stones of many different shapes, sizes and colors. These are fit together with large amounts of mortar. There are no neat, uniform rows with thin lines of mortar connecting them as you would find with uniformly cut bricks. These stones appear to be scattered all over the place, leaving the mortar to fill in the gaps between them. Also enhancing this hodgepodge of shapes and sizes is an array of tans, grays and even reds. The varying shades of these colors have also been set in just the right place to create an overall stunning, rustic effect.   
This wall of stone surrounds an opening at the base where fires have been built and enjoyed on brisk fall and winter evenings. Without a fire roaring in its place, the fireplace remains beautiful. Yet although it still appears lovely, this carefully crafted unit serves no function. No warmth is emitted from the crackling embers or roaring flames of well laid fire.
Scripture tell us that we are stones built upon the Cornerstone of Jesus Christ. “[Come] and, like living stones, be yourselves built [into] a spiritual house, for a holy (dedicated, consecrated) priesthood, to offer up [those] spiritual sacrifices [that are] acceptable and pleasing to God through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:5 AMP) We have each been created uniquely to fill the role made for us. When each of us are walking as we are created to function, a strong and beautiful encasement for the glory and passion of God is created. “For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, building itself up in love.” (Ephesians 4:16 AMP) Unity of purpose is essential.  “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1 AMP)
Holding these precious stones together is the mortar of God’s love. “Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:5 AMP) In order to fit together properly we must share the selfless love God has bestowed on us with each other. “Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins [forgives and disregards the offenses of others].” (1 Peter 4:8 AMP) When mercy and grace are freely extended to each other, we can be bound together in a strength that is attractive to all who see. “And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony].” (Colossians 3:14 AMP)

It is imperative to light the fire and warm both the body of Christ and all who are looking on. “Be happy [in your faith] and rejoice and be glad-hearted continually (always); Be unceasing in prayer [praying perseveringly]; Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]. Do not quench (suppress or subdue) the [Holy] Spirit;” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 AMP) This is accomplished by keeping our eyes on Jesus and following His example. “And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.” (Ephesians 5:2 AMP) By this we can truly share this love with others.

Many people in this world are searching for a strong and beautiful place for their souls to live. When others look at us do they see a beautifully crafted stone wall of uniquely created and properly placed believers? Do they see the mortar of love filling in the gaps and cementing us in to one unit? They will only when we, “And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32 AMP)

Whatever your shape, size or color, lovingly take your place as a living stone in the Body of Christ, beautifully built up by God for all to see. Allow the fire He has placed within His body to burn freely and warm all who encounter it.