The Stones Still Speak: Our Day in Lisbon

Today, we walked through the capital of Portugal, Lisbon. A few months ago at a business event, there was an auction to raise money for a charity. Kenneth bid on a week in Portugal and won! So here we are. Michael has flown in and some family from Edinburgh are also joining us for the week. Our first day began in the capital city of Lisbon.

In Lisbon, the stunning architecture and cobblestone streets captivate visitors with the omnipresence of stones. From the intricate patterns of the pavements to the grand facades of historic buildings, stones tell a story of endurance and beauty.

For those who grew up in Europe or any place connected with the ancient world, being in an area of stone is usual, but for this native Floridian, only beach, grass, sand, and sunshine is everywhere. My hometown isn’t more than 125 years old; but today I walked past remnants of Roman, Celtic, Muslim, Christian and Iberian ruins which remain hundreds and perhaps thousands of years after they were crafted. The kingdoms are gone, but the stones remain as a witness to the history of this gorgeous place.

This fascination resonates deeply with the biblical significance of stones, which frequently appear in Scripture, symbolizing strength, faith, and God’s covenant with His people. As we walked around snapping pictures left and right, as tourists do, I zoned in on the stunning stonework and ruins evoking profound reflections on biblical use of stones. Did you know stone or stones is mentioned in scripture over 250 times?

From Genesis to Revelation stones are mentioned. Here are 12 examples:

Genesis 28:18 – “Early in the morning Jacob took the stone he had placed under his head and set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it.”
Exodus 17:6 – “I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.”
Joshua 4:6-7 – “In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord.”
1 Samuel 17:40 – “Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, and put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag.”
Psalm 118:22 – “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.”
Isaiah 28:16 – “So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation.’”
Matthew 4:3 – “The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.'”
Matthew 21:42 – “Jesus said to them, ‘Have you never read in the Scriptures: The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes?'”
John 8:7 – “When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, ‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.'”
1 Peter 2:5 – “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”
Acts 7:58 – “They dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.”
Revelation 21:19 – “The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald…”

These verses illustrate the diverse uses and rich symbolism of stones throughout the Bible.

One of the most significant significant moments is found in Luke 19:40, where Jesus, upon entering Jerusalem, declares that if His followers were silent, “the very stones would cry out.” This statement highlights the role of stones as witnesses to God’s truth and prophetic fulfillment.

Jesus also prophesied the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, stating, “Not one stone will be left on another; every one will be thrown down” (Matthew 24:2). This prophecy was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Romans destroyed the Temple, leaving only the western wall as a remnant. Such events underscore how stones can symbolize judgment and the transient nature of earthly structures, contrasting with the eternal nature of God’s kingdom.

As I explored Lisbon, I recognized how these stones serve as metaphors for our lives. Just as they form the foundation of enduring structures, our faith in Christ provides stability amid life’s uncertainties. Today, the abundance of stone in Lisbon became a tangible reminder of the eternal truths found in Scripture, inviting me to reflect on my own journeys of faith built solely on my faith in Christ as my cornerstone.

I never had a pet rock, as did most children of the 70s. Yet, as I reflect on my childhood, I do remember collecting rocks during beach trips, or trips to the mountains with the family. Each stone held a story—whether it was a smooth pebble found by the river or a jagged rock with rainbow like colors, these small treasures sparked my imagination, just as the Bible uses stones to convey deep spiritual truths.

In Scripture, stones are not just artifacts but symbols of faith and strength. Jesus is often connected to stones in powerful ways. He referred to Himself as the cornerstone, the essential building block of our faith (Ephesians 2:20). When Peter confessed Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus declared that Peter would be the rock upon which He would build His Church (Matthew 16:18). This illustrates how God uses stones—not just for their permanence, but as symbols of strength and resilience.

In moments of uncertainty, we can find solace in the rock-solid promises of God. Like the stones of our childhood, which were shaped by time and experience, our faith is refined through trials. Let us remember that, like stones, we too can be transformed and used for God’s purpose, standing firm in our beliefs and shining His light in the world. In Christ, the ultimate stone, we find our foundation and unwavering support.

As I walked these ancient streets, I couldn’t help but wonder—what are the “stones” in our lives that speak of God’s faithfulness? What foundations are we building on, and how are we leaving a lasting witness for those who will come after us? Whether you’re walking through ruins or navigating your own journey of faith, let the symbolism of stones remind you that God is our sure foundation, our unshakable Rock. I’d love to hear from you—have you ever encountered a place or moment that pointed you back to a deeper spiritual truth? What helps you stay grounded in your faith when the world around you feels like shifting sand? Let’s reflect and grow together.

Let’s start a conversation—share your thoughts below or send me an email.

P.S. The flowers and fruit here in Lisbon have been such a treat—just another reminder of God’s goodness in every season and place.

If this message resonates with you, I encourage you to Insta-share it with a friend.

Insta-share it on Instagram!
Screenshot your favorite section and tag me [@AngelaMackenzie___] so I can see and share your post! Let’s keep the conversation going and strengthen each other in faith!

Also, if you feel led to support the ministry, we would be deeply grateful. Through teaching, music, and outreach, we are committed to sharing the truth of Christ and equipping believers around the world. Your generosity helps us continue this work. If you’d like to contribute, you can do so here.

Thank you for being part of this journey—your prayers, support, and encouragement mean the world!