When the Stones Fall Down

One of the disciples looked up in awe at the temple and said, “What massive stones. What magnificent buildings.” Jesus didn’t flinch. He said, “Not one stone will be left on another. Every one will be thrown down.” (Mark 13: 1-2)

Nothing we will build lasts forever.

Not the business.

Not the brand.

Not the body.

Not the image.

Not even the temple if God isn’t in it.

God is not impressed with man-made monuments. He’s looking for obedience, trust, and surrender. That’s what moves Him. That’s what my soul is really chasing: intimacy, not applause.

This morning, while stressing over flight logistics and all the usual chaos, I caught myself trying to control every outcome again. That’s when God pressed pause. In that still moment, while studying and at the same time, thinking about crammed seats, I thought about two other Scriptures:

1. Jesus telling the rich young ruler to sell everything and follow Him.

2. Jesus telling Peter, “What is that to you? You follow Me.”

The common thread? Let go. Let go of the plan. Let go of the control. Let go of the scoreboard. Just follow.

And that’s where I get stuck sometimes.

I’ve built. I’ve strategized. I’ve pushed. I’ve tried to outwork my limitations.

Sometimes, effort isn’t what’s missing, faith is.

I’ve built a strong body. Now it needs rest and recovery.

I’ve built a team. Now I need to pivot with purpose.

I’ve poured into my family. But connection can’t be forced, it has to be cultivated.

I’ve chased God (which is crazy because He’s right here now!). But sometimes I’ve mistaken performance for presence.

Some seasons are for building.

Others are for trusting while everything shifts under your feet.

Right now, I’m being asked to trust. To release. To follow with conviction in the absence of clarity.

The temple stones may fall.

But the call of Christ does not change:

“Follow Me.”

And that has to be enough for all of us.