Just a lump of clay

This article by Jennifer Heck appeared in the Southeast Christian Church newsletter paper. She visited a pottery shop and writes an analogy of how God relates to each one of us. I was blessed by her observations and pray that her article will bless your life.

“The master potter starts with a slab of hard clay. He throws it down onto a hard surface repeatedly to remove air bubbles and eliminate defects. He then examines the compressed clay as he mixes in softer clay to reduce stiffness and reach a desired consistency. The potter cuts the hunk of clay into pieces, softening one clump with the warmth of his hands. He kneads it as a baker prepares dough, squeezing and rolling it into a ball and weighing the lump for his intended purpose.
The potter then places the clay on the center of the wheel and pours water on top of the round mass as he adjusts the speed of the spinning wheel. He applies pressure with his hands and fingers to the clay reaching down into its heart and expands it from the inside. He adds water frequently to reduce friction, cradles the clay inside both his hands, molding its shape with external and internal forces.
Fashioning his work, the potter observes an emerging shape rising from the wheel. It becomes a bowl, a plate, cup or pitcher as the potter designs it. The clay has no say in the matter. The potter continues until the created piece, whether practical or decorative just right. He then prepares the pottery for the kiln by cutting away excess clay that isn’t needed. He carves into its surface his own signature, smoothing the rough edges and sponging it with more water. He sets it aside to dry under his protective care.
This unique creation is placed, by the potter, inside the oven been heated to 2,300 degrees. He leaves it inside knowing it becomes stronger and more useful the longer it remains in the fire. He then removes his precious pottery from the kiln after shutting off the oven at the designated time. He lets the piece cool for another day, reusing specks of discarded clay. The potter celebrates his finished creation. He delights in the fact that no two pieces are exactly alike, and that the pottery will be used to serve people in ways he planned from the beginning. We can celebrate that God is the Master Potter and we are the work of His hands.”

Isaiah 64:8
“Yet, O LORD, you are our Father.
We are the clay, you are the potter;
we are all the work of your hand”.


I am praying for you and your family,
Just a lump of clay,
Leonard