cracked clay

”For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:6-9

My child,

I am the God who spoke to the dark void of the universe and caused the boundless light of billions of galaxies to burst forth. It should not surprise you that I can illuminate the darkest corners of your heart with the light of the knowledge of my glory. I will never leave you alone in the dark.

If you rest in the priceless provision of my Spirit, you will not lose heart. Lay down all that is not of me, so that I may reveal my glory through you. I have entrusted the treasure of my Spirit to your earthen vessel.

I can demonstrate my surpassing greatness through you. I am able to use all those battle cracks as portals for my radiance. This allows everyone to see my power does not originate with you.

You have been afflicted in many ways, but not crushed. You have been perplexed, but did not despair. You have been persecuted, but not abandoned. You have been struck down, but not destroyed. Christ’s death and life have been reflected in you. This brings me glory.

So do not lose heart. Only your flesh is fading. Your spirit (which is eternal) continues to blossom as you thrive in my presence. Trust me. All your struggles can give birth to an eternal glory that is beyond anything you can imagine.

I love you,

Abba

My Abba,

Sometimes I want to hide my cracks and chips, so I look smoother - more unblemished to others. Please help me to resist the urge to cover up and play picture-perfect. We both know that is not reality.

When I receive the eternal beauty you have to offer, my heart is ecstatic. Immersed in your grace, love and truth, I realize I am gloriously privileged and satisfied. I want to be a finely tuned instrument for your influence. I want your power to be evident in me – your glory pouring through every broken place in my life.

Thank you that you have sustained me, especially in affliction. You have kept me from being crushed, despairing, and destroyed. You have never abandoned me.

As the years pass and my earth suit grows weaker, I look forward to all the ways you are igniting my spirit with the spark of your love. Each day, please make me more sensitive to your leading. I want to recognize the opportunities you offer this cracked clay pot to be a luminous vessel for your brilliance. Thank you for being my perpetual power source. I want to shine for you in a way that makes it perfectly clear who has the power.

I love you,

Mollie

image: danchristopher