LBW 369, “The Church’s One Foundation”
Devotion
Every building contractor knows how important it is to build on a solid foundation. Jesus echoed this principle when he spoke of a house built on rock rather than sand (Matthew 7:24-27).
The biography of the hymn writer Samuel Stone (1839-1900) may not be widely known, yet he was an outstanding pastoral leader in England. He paints a realistic picture of the church in this hymn, one that has left a permanent mark on my life.
The Apostle Paul also understood foundations. He wrote, “No one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:11). I give thanks daily for Christian parents that set my life on that foundation. With its mixed history of faith and unbelief, obedience and apostasy. the church is “a scornful wonder” that yet “has union, with God, the Three in One.” We sing, “Lord, save us by your grace.” That is the foundation on which abiding faith flourishes.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, grant to us the “mystic sweet communion, with those whose rest is won.” Amen.