Have you ever played Jenga? Players take turns removing one block at a time from a tower constructed of 54 blocks. Each block removed is then placed on top of the tower, creating a progressively more unstable structure. The game ends when any portion of the tower collapses, caused by either the removal of a block or its new placement. The last player to complete a turn before the collapse is the winner.

This game is another illustration of why the foundation of a building is so important!

Last Sunday I began a four week series entitled: “We are Living Stones”, based on the scripture 1Peter 2: 4-9. Peter tells us we are to build our lives upon a firm foundation, and Peter tell us who that is. We are to build our lives on Jesus, the Living Stone — the precious and chosen cornerstone.

Peter also reminds us that we, like living stones are a “chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God”. And like living stones, God wants to fit us together living stone by living stone to build God’s church.

That’s who we are in the sight of God. That’s who we are, fundamentally, as believers. We are living stones! What a wonderful reminder as we celebrate Amberlea’s 40th year together.

If you were at Amberlea last Sunday you would have received a stone, (if you weren’t be sure to pick up one this week!). I pray as you hold that stone in your hand you are reminded of God’s complete and unconditional love for you. I pray that you are reminded that God has a purpose and plan for your life and a purpose and plan for the life and work of Amberlea Presbyterian Church. I continue to be excited to see how God will fit us together to build the Church.