Jars of Clay

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us”‭‭(2 Corinthians‬ ‭4:7‬ ‭ESV‬‬).

As I get older, I realize more and more how fragile my body is becoming. The daily aches and pains that accompany the advent of the half-century mark are a constant reminder that age waits for no one.

We are truly like jars of clay, easily nicked, chipped, cracked and broken.

I used to get frustrated, even angry, that I have to endure the burden of constant, chronic pain. I even used it as an excuse to  hide from my responsibilities as a Christian. When I didn’t feel like going to church, it was an excuse. When I didn’t want to fellowship with other believers, it was an excuse. When I didn’t walk in the joy of the Lord, it was my excuse.

But I have come to realize that while I am a nicked, chipped, cracked and broken clay pot, I am still filled with the Holy Spirit. My “defects” are not meant to be excuses, but windows! Windows that the world can look through to see the “surpassing power” of God!

I can’t honestly say that I am thankful for the frailties of my body. I wish that I had the strength and vitality of my youth. But I can say that I am grateful that God can and does use this broken vessel. For His strength is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Blessings on your day!