Lamentations 4:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Yet these living stones find themselves scattered in public spaces, for those who should be devoted to prayer and life within the sacred confines often spend their time in the marketplaces, engaging in worldly pursuits. Today, it is rare for priests to be untouched by worldly affairs. When those consecrated to the holy life become embroiled in external activities, it resembles the sacred stones lying idle in the courtyard. Since the term street, derived from Greek, signifies a wide expanse, these stones can be found in the streets when faithful individuals walk the broad paths of this world. They are not merely in the streets, but stand at the forefront of public arenas, despite choosing to engage in the affairs of the world at will, all while yearning for the highest acknowledgment of their spiritual status. Thus, the stones of the Sanctuary scatter at the head of the streets because they both remain inactive in fulfilling their purpose and covet respect for an illusory holiness.