Lumps of clay

I don’t know art, but I know what I like. This is an apt summation of my arts and crafts ability. My father had exceptional artistic talent. Whether it was in the medium of painting or stained glass or pottery, he could visualize a concept and turn it into reality. The little I know of pottery I learned from him, and in today’s reading, I find myself thinking of God’s people as clay vessels.

Clay is a malleable substance, able to be shaped many different ways. It does not stay in one particular shape until it is fired in a kiln. The image of God as the potter shaping and using us is an encouraging one. The possibilities of unfired clay are exciting. How will we mould ourselves to best use our gifts to honour God? I rather like the idea of being continually moulded. I don’t want to be thrown in the kiln and fired into hardness only to become brittle. God isn’t finished with me.

Lord, you shape us every day into what you would have us become. Help us see others as you see us: your children being formed in your image. Amen. — SQ

Contributed by Lumps of clay

I don't know art, but I know what I like. This is an apt summation of my arts and crafts ability. My father had exceptional artistic talent. Whether it was in the medium of painting or stained glass or pottery, he could visualize a concept and turn it into reality. The little I know of pottery I learned from him, and in today's reading, I find myself thinking of God's people as clay vessels. Clay is a malleable substance, able to be shaped many different ways. It does not stay in one particular shape until it is fired in a kiln. The image of God as the potter shaping and using us is an encouraging one. The possibilities of unfired clay are exciting. How will we mould ourselves to best use our gifts to honour God? I rather like the idea of being continually moulded. I don't want to be thrown in the kiln and fired into hardness only to become brittle. God isn't finished with me.
Eternity for Today