Daily Devotions
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 2 Corinthians 4:7
A poem titled “The Cracked Pot” tells of a water bearer in India who had two large pots. Each hung on the end of a pole he carried across his neck. Every day he walked down to the stream to fill the pots and return with water for his master.
However, one pot was cracked while the other was not. As the bearer walked, the cracked pot spilt water along the path and so only half a pot was delivered each day. The pot felt badly that its flaw caused the water bearer to work harder as it only produced half as much as the flawless pot. The water bearer responded by pointing out that its flaw had caused flowers to flourish and bloom on its side of the path—flowers the water bearer picked to grace his master’s table.
Often we do not feel we are gifted enough to do meaningful work in God’s Kingdom. We know how appreciated it is when someone notices the little things we do—things of which we may not even be aware. And to the human eye, God’s gift—Jesus, a humble baby born in a dingy manger—didn’t appear to be anything special.
We all know people who consider themselves “cracked pots.” They can’t do many things others may do effortlessly. It is these people who need our words of encouragement most.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be aware of those who feel inadequate. Use me—flaws and all—to share the gift of encouragement. Amen.
My Bold Action for Today: I will make a point of encouraging someone today.
Rev. Bryan Rosnau