When I attended college (for the first time), I took the class, geology. Geology is the study of “rocks.” Let’s just say, I was not very good at the study of “rocks.” Of course, the whole idea behind geology is that over the many years, our earth has evolved – volcanos and earthquakes that have created layers and layers of rock, soil, and rivers. However, with each layer, the “rock” tells a story. We were taught that by the look, feel, and where the rock was found, you could take an educated guess about the story of that rock – how old it might be or what outside forces may have formed that rock. For me, I had difficulty understanding and lacked the ability to see the ‘rock’ other than what it just was – a rock.

In 1 Peter 2:1-12, St Peter talks about stones – Living Stones. The difference between rock and stone is that a stone is a fragment of a large rock. Peter says that we are to act as a “living stone” (1 Peter 4:4). In other words, if we perceive ourselves as a “Living Stone,” we are a ‘chip’ off the Rock – Jesus Christ! And, what then is a “Living Stone?” It means to obey God – rid ourselves of malice, insincerity, envy, slander, long to be fed the Word of God, and knowing you will be rejected by mortals – but yet, know you have been chosen by God. As a “Living Stone,” we stand firm in our belief in Jesus Christ!

Therefore, as a Living Stone that stands firm in our belief, we tell the story of Jesus Christ. Our story and witness demonstrates and represents the story of Jesus Christ who died for us on the cross – who is the cornerstone of our lives.

Let us pray…Gracious God, help us to be a “Living Stone” in this world of chaos, fear, and uncertainty. Give us the strength of a stone to proclaim you as our Lord and Savior – Amen.