The Treasure in Clay Jars
In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul uses a powerful image: believers are clay jars holding a priceless treasure. On their own, clay jars are fragile, ordinary, and easily cracked. But what makes them remarkable is the treasure they hold — the gospel and life of Christ within.
Paul reminds us that God, in His wisdom, chose to place the glory and message of His Son into weak and ordinary people. Why? So that when His power shines, it’s clear that the glory belongs to Him, not to us. Just as a diamond sparkles more brilliantly against dark velvet, the light of Christ shines brightest against the backdrop of our weakness.
We often think our value comes from our abilities, appearance, or achievements. Yet Scripture flips this thinking upside down: our true value is what’s inside. Our outer life may be fragile and fading, but within us dwells the eternal treasure of Christ’s presence.
And here’s the mystery — when life cracks us open through suffering, disappointment, or trials, the treasure within us becomes even more visible. Our weakness and brokenness becomes the stage for God’s strength.
So, what’s in your vessel? Is it filled with self, or is it filled with Christ? Let’s remember: God delights in using weak, ordinary people to showcase His extraordinary glory.