Reflection
In today's readings, God's promises reach their fulfillment through unexpected paths. Isaiah 11-13 prophesies the Messianic kingdom of peace and justice, while also declaring judgment on the proud. Psalm 118 celebrates God's steadfast love and the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone. Matthew 27 reveals how these promises find their ultimate fulfillment as Jesus suffers rejection, crucifixion, and death.

The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: God's greatest promises are often fulfilled through suffering and apparent defeat, transforming rejection into the very foundation of our salvation and hope.

Let's break this down into a simple principle:

Trust God's promises even when fulfillment comes through unexpected or difficult paths, finding hope in His steadfast love during times of suffering.

Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:

1. Write down one promise from God you're waiting to see fulfilled.

2. Thank God for three specific ways His love has remained steadfast in your life.

3. Choose to trust God's timing in one situation that feels like defeat or delay.

4. Reach out to someone who feels rejected and show them God's love.

5. Spend 10 minutes in worship, praising God for His faithfulness despite circumstances.

As you go about your day, reflect on this question: How does knowing that Jesus suffered rejection help you handle your own experiences of being misunderstood or rejected?

Conclusion
Thank you for joining me today. God's promises survive rejection and transform suffering into victory. Trust His steadfast love even when the path seems unclear. Until tomorrow, may you find hope in His unchanging faithfulness.