“But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7)
Read 2 Corinthians 4:1–12.
I’m not thrilled by the “jars of clay” description. It can feel as though it’s a bit of a put-down. Sure, I know I’m not perfect. I have many shortcomings, make lots of mistakes and continue messing things up, especially in my relationships.
But, because I am a child of God through Jesus Christ, I try to give the impression that I have my life together. I want others to see that I can be in control, handle all kinds of disappointments, and put on a brave face when challenged with health issues or financial difficulties.
So, to be described as a clay jar (or maybe a cracked pot!) can be a bit hard to take. What kind of a witness to Jesus is it when others see me as being weak, fragile and nothing like the reflection of God’s glory that I am called to be?
St Paul didn’t try to convince his accusers that he was an authentic apostle of the gospel by listing his strengths and achievements. Instead, he insisted on pointing to the treasure that was within him.
Those to whom this treasure is entrusted are not magnificent containers made of gold or silver. They are imperfect, ordinary, earthen vessels, used by God in remarkable ways and, at times, especially in their suffering for the sake of the gospel.
The value of the treasure is not derived from the container. The power of the gospel is not dependent on our personal attributes. So, we can be content to let God demonstrate His power in all our human weakness.
What we declare in and through our relationships is not our strength, endurance, courage or faithfulness, but Jesus Christ as Lord. Whatever our outward appearance may be, we can be confident that the treasure within us is all we need to be bold and not to lose heart.
Prayer
Father, I thank You for Your grace and mercy in making me Your child. As imperfect and broken as I am, let the grace and glory that is our life with You be what is seen when people look at us, not the “clay jar” that we all physically are.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
