Read: 2 Corinthians 4:1–15
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
By all accounts Paul was not much to look at. His body had been broken by years of torture and abuse. He had been beaten, whipped, shipwrecked, nearly drowned, and even bitten by a deadly viper. His body bore the scars of affliction for living, preaching, and professing what he believed. There are also indications that his preaching wasn’t all that engaging. His words could fill people with rage or put them to sleep. But to some, Paul’s presence and his words reflected something of the power and presence of God. In fact, Paul believed that the more cracked and humble our lives, the more God could be seen through them. Fancy and shiny lives have a way of distracting our attention from the One who created them. However, rustic clay jars do not draw our attention away from that which fills them. Likewise, the imperfections of our lives may be the cracks through which the Spirit of God can be witnessed by others.
What imperfection in you can demonstrate God’s power to the world?
Lord, we feel as if our imperfections, flaws, and painful histories are dark stains on our appearance. We strive to hide our faults and failures so that those around us will not take notice of our weaknesses. What if our weaknesses are those very spaces in our lives through which You can be seen? What if You are more fully revealed in clay jars that do not demand more attention than their contents? What if less-than-remarkable parts of our lives demonstrate Your presence better than those few well-polished aspects we desire to present to others? That would be a miracle . . . and that sounds just like You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.