Jars of Clay

 “But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” ‭‭2Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Today, I discovered an interesting fact about clay that I had never known. Did you know that clay possesses a unique form of memory?

Unlike our human memory, this clay memory is not about recalling past events but rather about retaining the impressions left behind during the shaping process. As a result, clay tends to revert to its original shape, which can lead to twisting and warping during the drying or firing stages.

Interestingly, we share a similar trait with clay—we too have memories. Our past experiences, whether positive or negative, can leave lasting impressions on us. Hurtful words, regrets, rejections, and painful experiences can all contribute to our identity and shape our character. However, it’s important to remember that we also have positive memories that play a significant role in our development.

Isaiah 64:8(ESV) expresses beautifully this relationship between us and God. It states, “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” This verse emphasizes that God is the creator and molder of our lives, and He uses our experiences, both good and bad, to shape us into the beautiful individuals He intends us to be.

Furthermore, I learned about a Japanese art form called Kintsugi. This art involves repairing broken pottery by mending areas of breakage with a mixture of lacquer, gold, silver, or platinum. The purpose of this process is to enhance the beauty of the imperfections in the pottery. I believe that God operates in a similar way with us. He transforms our flaws and imperfections into sources of beauty and strength.

However, it’s important to recognize that it’s God’s work within us that enables us to fulfill His plans for our lives. We are merely fragile vessels of clay, and it’s the power of His Spirit that empowers us with the strength, courage, and confidence we need to move forward. As Zechariah 4:6(ESV) reminds us, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”

Isaiah 43:18-19(ESV) further emphasizes this concept. It states, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” This verse encourages us to embrace change and trust in God’s ability to create something new and beautiful from our lives.

But how do we forget the “former things”? By releasing our painful memories to Jesus, trusting Him to redeem them, and then our healing can begin. How can we do this? By closing our eyes and picturing Him in front of us, then giving all those painful memories we hold in our hearts and turning them over to Him. Remembering that His mercies are new every morning and that it is His Spirit that sets us free and helps us move forward.

Allowing Jesus to shape and mold us, not despite our memories but because of them. Our story can become an offering of beauty to the world.