Site Preparation

True repentance is no light matter. It is a thorough change of heart about sin, a change showing itself in godly sorrow and humiliation - in heartfelt confession before the throne of grace - in a complete breaking off from sinful habits, and an abiding hatred of all sin. Such repentance is the inseparable companion of saving faith in Christ.  - J.C. Ryle

Numerous construction projects are underway within walking distance of our home. New apartments and office buildings, department stores, a park, and a community center are all in process. No matter the unique design, each one begins the same way: the dirt is removed, and the site is prepared.  

Bulldozers, backhoes and dump trucks start the process, digging holes and pushing dirt. A stable, sturdy building starts by ridding the site of what should not be there. A strong building requires removing the dirt and debris so the foundation rests on solid rock. 

In his first epistle, Peter writes to Christians encouraging them to grow spiritually and build their lives and their communities upon Christ, the “precious Cornerstone.” (I Peter 2:6) But before Peter talks about growing and building he deals with site preparation. He begins, “Put away all malice and all deceit, and hypocrisy, envy and all slander.” (I Peter 2:1) 

God wants us to grow strong and live stable Christian lives. He wants us to be grounded on the Cornerstone of Christ. Peter explains the purpose as well: “that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9b) 

Dan Bolin

President

Refueling in Flight