Monday, April 4, 2011

Clay Vessels

"We have this treasure in clay vessels, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God." 2 Corinthians 4:7

This treasure, the light of Jesus Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, the love of the Father, is within us, who are weak and sometimes cracked, broken and mended vessels. Sins we commit, circumstances that happen to us, choices we make can crack us, sometimes even shatter the weak vessels of our hearts, minds, emotions. When we seek God, ask his forgiveness, search for his help, he comes, heals and mends. Sometimes in his infinite mercy and grace, God makes the break or crack "disappear." You can't even see a scar, praise the Lord!

But, sometimes, the former break is still visible-a scar, a faint line, maybe even small missing pieces. I don't think this is a mistake or a lack of faith. I think that, if we allow it, the treasure that we carry, the light of Jesus, shines even more brightly through these cracks, these small holes. God wants to use all things for good. God wants to use our past, our mistakes, our hurts to draw others to him.

We can understand their current pain and disillusions because we were once there. They may be more willing to open up and share with us because they can see the truth of our empathy as we are open and honest about our own suffering.

Our weak and mended vessels are whole, beautiful and sanctified by Jesus' sacrifice, praise the Lord! And God wants to use everyone to bring honor and glory to his name and to draw many more to him.

God, may your light shine even more brightly in and through us because of our past, our hurts, our broken parts, not in spite of them. May we allow your Spirit to use all of us to draw others to you.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Powerful, encouraging words.
Kathy

Galen and Phyllis Groff said...

We have the challenge to remain pliable in His hands. In our brokenness the light within us shines even more brighter.