From Rejection to Cornerstone: Embracing the Marginalized in God's Kingdom (03/01/'24)*

From Rejection to Cornerstone: Embracing the Marginalized in God's Kingdom In the heart of the scriptures, Matthew 21:42 and Psalm 118:22-23 deliver a profound message, metaphorically portraying the overlooked and marginalized as the cornerstone of God's kingdom. This narrative, "From Rejection to Cornerstone: Embracing the Marginalized in God's Kingdom," beckons us to a deeper understanding and reflection on our societal values and the inherent dignity of every individual, especially the homeless and the poor. It confronts us with the undeniable truth that those often dismissed and deemed worthless by societal standards are, in fact, of paramount importance in the eyes of the Divine. This passage is not merely a critique but a divine call to action, urging us to reevaluate our perceptions and attitudes towards those living on the margins. It challenges the conventional metrics of value and success, revealing that God's kingdom is built on foundations of love, acceptance, and redemption, contrary to the worldly kingdom built on wealth, power, and status. This divine perspective invites us to see the homeless and the poor not as liabilities but as vital members of our community, each possessing unique gifts and potential to contribute to the collective good. The metaphor of the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone encapsulates the essence of God's transformative power. It exemplifies how God often chooses the least likely individuals and situations to manifest His presence and purpose, thereby overturning societal norms and expectations. This realization compels us to extend compassion, solidarity, and support to those who are struggling, recognizing their value and ensuring they have the opportunity to become cornerstones in our communities. This message serves as a reminder that our actions and attitudes towards the marginalized are a reflection of our alignment with God's vision for humanity. By embracing those who are often overlooked, we not only participate in their upliftment but also in the broader divine mission of creating a more inclusive, loving, and just society. It is through this lens of divine inclusivity and love that we can truly understand the depth, clarity, and insight of the call to embrace the marginalized, transforming our world one act of kindness at a time. Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 1, 2024)