“The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the LORD’s doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:22–24
The Book of Matthew records: “And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.” (Matthew 26:30) At Passover, this hymn wasn’t a random tune, rather it was the Egyptian Hallel from Psalms 113–118, that the Jews sang to celebrate God’s deliverance from Egypt. “Hallel” means “praise” and was sung during major Jewish festivals—especially Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles. Typically, Psalms 113–114 were sung before the Passover meal, and Psalms 115–118 were sung after the meal.
When we examine Psalm 118 in the context of Jesus singing it right before His crucifixion, it is remarkable beyond words. It’s hard to imagine, but hours before betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion, Jesus lifted His voice in worship—singing about His own death and victory. Try to imagine being in His shoes—knowing the great torture that lay before Him, and yet being able to sing about it. Mind blowing. He sang:
“I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.” (Psalm 118:17) Though bodily torture and death loomed, He proclaimed His own resurrection and life.
“The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.” (118:22) Though only a mere five days after His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, He sang of being rejected by the very same people because He knew He was chosen as the foundation of the salvation of all humanity.
“This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (118:24) He rejoiced in that very day—the very day before His sacrifice.
“Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar.” (118:27) He sang of the sacrifice bound to the altar, knowing He Himself was the Lamb about to be nailed to the cross.
How magnificent that God inspired the writing of the Gospels to include these details about the heart of Christ and how deeply He trusted His Father’s plan!
What does this mean for us?
Aside from giving us more reason to give thanks for our Savior, it also teaches us that genuine worship is not about circumstances but about the faithfulness of God. Jesus didn’t sing because the path ahead was easy. He sang because He trusted the Father’s will—because He is good.
“Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” Psalms 118:1
We can only worship—despite our circumstances—when we are constantly correcting the course of our mind. We must continually develop the mind of Christ by immersing ourselves in His Word, in prayer, and in service to others in love (not obligation), with a commitment to a church family, and by loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind. Because Jesus trusted the Father in His darkest hour, we can trust Him in ours.
When Christ is our center, our circumstances will be peripheral to what we worship. Our circumstances don’t deserve our worship; only God does!
Reflection Thought
What circumstance in your life is taking center stage and making you anxious? Now consider whether this problem deserves center stage. Remember God’s faithfulness—especially in purchasing our salvation and realign your love. Trade anxiety for peace.
Prayer
Father, it amazes me that Jesus sang Psalm 118 on the night He was betrayed, declaring Your plan even as He faced the cross. Teach me to trust You like that. When my circumstances feel heavy, remind me that Your Word is sure and Your plan is good. Give me the courage to worship in the face of suffering, knowing that in Christ, rejection and death never have the last word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
