"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body."
(2 Corinthians 4:7-10)
Jars of Clay. What happened to that group? Are they still around?
The earthen vessels of 2 Corinthians 4 are more simply called "jars of clay." Kind of similar to the ones you might find for sale in Tijuana, Mexico. They’re not particularly valuable or well-made. They tend to be fragile and crumble and break easily. In fact, they’re just like us. Having gone through various health challenges, I understand the concept of frailty. I've learned that I’m not invincible like I thought when I was 21. Or even 51.
But the amazing truth that I don’t want you to miss here is that God places his very presence into these fragile containers. He places the life and power of Jesus Christ into us in order that the world around us might see his power and glory.
It’s an interesting contrast to compare the pot with the treasure inside. It is the very power of God that raised Jesus Christ from the dead that now resides in everyone who has invited Jesus Christ to be their Savior.
I think that 2017 might be a year to make that treasure known to the world around us. Pray as I plan to overcome some of the challenges of being a simple clay pot. I do this not because of me, but because of the treasure within. Keep in touch!
