Natural stones need to be cut and chiseled for a proper fit. By contrast, “cultured” stones come from a mold, and have a project-ready uniformity. In a spiritual sense, think about the significance of natural stones versus cultured. Peter described us as living stones being fit together as a “spiritual house” aligned with Jesus, the Chief Cornerstone (I Peter 2:4-8).

The work begins without a demand for perfection and uniformity first. The Master carefully smooths out existing scars, removes unwanted portions, and shapes the rest for a perfect fit. Sometimes the process gets painful but remember who’s handling the chisel. It’s one who knows the pain of being scarred and lovingly applies the needed adjustments.

Cultured stones may be uniform and without blemishes, but scarred stones bear the marks of love, forgiveness, redemption, and hope!

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” I Peter 2:9 NKJV