Terra Cotta Jars

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, 

to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us. 2 Cor 4.7

Paul, the apostle, in his second letter to the Corinthians, refers to himself and the other apostles as “earthen vessels.” I adore this reference. In the creation story, we are told that we are made from dust. The name Adam is a play on the word for dirt, Adamah. We come from humble origins. (It is noteworthy that in the first account of creation, Genesis 1.27, Man and Woman were created at the same time.) Paul reminds us that we are earthen vessels. I like to think we are Terra Cotta Jars.

          We are Terra Cotta Jars made to contain the spirit of God. It was through God breathing into us, filling us with his spirit, that we were brought to life. While this might be an allegory, there is a truth that awaits behind. That it is his spirit, his breath, that animates all life. Personally, I prefer the analogy of being Terra Cotta Jars to that of being a “Temple of the Holy Spirit.” Terra Cotta Jars is a more humble way of putting it.

          It is what fills us that is important. Jesus taught, “But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.” (Matt 15.18) These are strong words to drive home the point that it is what we have within us that defines us. More to the point, what I do, how I treat you, also affects me at the core.

          Today’s post, albeit short, is to encourage you to think about what “spirit” you carry. Salvation, being restored to a clean heart and right spirit, is an inside job. While what we do obviously affects our heart and spirit. I think we are better served when we concentrate on how we view the world; those around us, and who we are called to be. 

 Anyway, that is my opinion.