The devotion was written by Origen who was born in Alexandria around 185. His father, a Biblical scholar and teacher, was executed by the state when Origen was still a youth for refusing to renounce Christ, and the family's entire property was confiscated.  He continued his Biblical studies and Greek philosophy in Alexandria and later opened his own school in Caesarea. A prolific writer, Origen wrote numerous Scripture commentaries and nearly 2000 treatises on theology and prayer.  In 250 he was imprisoned and tortured for his faith during a persecution in 250 and died four years later from his injuries.

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All of us who believe in Christ Jesus are said to be living stones, according to the words of Scripture: But you are living stones, built as a spiritual house in a holy priesthood, that you may offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.