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

Whoever does the will of the Son of God from heaven is a blazing sun in which there is summer, he is the seat of God in heaven, he is a pure vessel of crystal. He is a victorious horse crossing a level plain, the man who seeks the kingdom of the great God: he is a chariot in which a king is seen to ride, which carries off the prizes with noble grace.

   - Oengus mac Oengobann, Féilire Oengusso, Irish, 9th century

Many Christians don’t have a very high view of themselves. And that’s good, because, well, really, I know me, and I rather suspect you aren’t too different. We’re not much to shout about, given our sinful thoughts, selfish ways, weak wills, and puny strength.

We are but jars of clay, let’s face it, and jars of clay can be pretty unreliable vessels.

So we have nothing to boast about – at least, not in ourselves. But we have everything to boast about in the Lord. For it pleases the Lord to use silly people like you and me to accomplish glorious purposes.

When He comes to dwell in us by grace through faith, and begins to manifest His glory in and through us, then we become royal jars of clay, blazing suns, victorious horses, King-bearing chariots of divine presence and power.

And then we have something to boast about, for sure – but not ourselves.

Like John in that frail fishing vessel, whispering to Peter as they hauled in their enormous catch on that dark early morning, we say, at every glimmer of glory that sparkles through our frail flesh, “It is the Lord.”

This is what the Christian life is all about. God takes nobodies like us, fills us with Himself, and makes the universe stand up and take notice.

Pray for the day ahead – the things you’ll do, the people you’ll meet. You are no ordinary person. You are a royal vessel of the King of kings. What opportunities to perform your ambassadorship will the Lord present you with today?

Shine on, royal jars of clay!

Psalm 144.3, 4, 15 (Tidings: “O Zion Haste, Your Mission High Fulfilling”)
Lord, who are we, that You regard and love us?
Why should you care for our poor sinful plight?
We are but breath; You dwell on high above us;
Our days like shadows pass before Your light.
  Happy are they on whom blessings fall!
  Blest are the people who on Jesus’ mercy call!

Use me this day, O Lord, to further Your Kingdom and glory, whether my works be humble or grand.

T. M. Moore, Principal
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