2 Cor. 4:7 – But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
Lord Jesus, the de-stressing truth of this passage is awesome. You are the treasure Paul is writing about. To have you plus nothing makes us as rich as anybody in the history of the cosmos. You are quintessential treasure, riches, prize. You are the gold standard all other currencies mimic and counterfeit. Nothing compares to the greatness of being loved, known, and delighted in by you.
You inhabit our weakness like a Rembrandt painting in a picture frame of straw; or like the Hope Diamond mounted in a necklace of tin foil and Scotch Tape. You get the attention and honor, and we get the privilege of showcasing your awesomeness. We matter, but you are the point, Jesus.
8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
Though few of us are in danger of being martyred (like Paul was), we do relate to his images of being hard pressed and perplexed. Difficult stories, incessant demands, and various hurts tax our limits and drive us to you, Jesus.
None of us is called to be the 4th member of the Trinity. None of us is called to be a Super-Hero. None of us is expected to be awesome. All of us are called to own our limits, rest in your love, and trust your sovereignty. Help us, Jesus.
10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.
So as this Saturday continues, grant us grace to boast in our weaknesses and rest in your everything. May your beauty, goodness, and kindness be revealed through us. Increase our gentleness and joy. So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name.