*TOPIC: THE REJECTED STONE.* *Scripture Reading:* 1 Peter 2:4-6 *"As you come to him, the living Stone —rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him — 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. For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame."*(KJV). Jesus is the living stone that was rejected by many and now by power of God the father, now becomes the precious cornerstone! Hallelujah. We are those stones, when we are arranged in perfect alignment with our cornerstone, Jesus Christ. But how do we do that, exactly? How do we stay in line with Christ? Of course, we could always fall back on the answers of reading the Bible regularly, and praying without ceasing. We could talk about maintaining fellowship with one another. Those answers are all good, and those activities are certainly part of staying aligned with Christ. *But even more, I think, it requires intentionality on our part. We must desire to be in God’s will. We must make a conscious effort to line up with our cornerstone, Jesus Christ.* The parable of the wicked tenants shows us that God is persistent in seeking his people. God sent his own Son, who has been rejected by many. *God will eventually reject those who reject his grace, but God will always seek those who are willing to live in right relationship with him.* That relationship depends on our relationship with Jesus Christ. If we will align ourselves with Christ, the cornerstone, we will be in right relation to God the Father. Though the stone was rejected (Jesus) but as many that receive Him will live and not die. John 1:11-12 affirmed, *"He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God."* How do we receive Him? 1) You must believe His birth, death and resurrection. 2) You must confess all your sin, unfaithfulness and unholy acts to His feet. 3) You must accept Him as your Lord and savior. 4) You must follow His steps and walk according to His will 5) You must be aligned to His will for your life. 6) You must believe His word and work accordingly, carrying your cross daily and follow Him. Good morning and do have a fruitful Friday peace. *Prayer points:* Align me o Lord and let me live my life according to your will in Jesus Christ name. Amen! T.S. AFOLAYAN