2 CorinthiansSample

One can easily imagine how Paul, after the previous section, pauses for a moment and looks down at himself. He sees a person who has already lived through many painful experiences. Someone who is often sick. One who is very aware of his weaknesses. At first glance, all of this does not make a particularly strong impression.

And yet—or precisely because of this—he is a worthy vessel for the message of Jesus. For what matters is not the vessel, but the treasure it carries within. The Greek word Paul uses here for "vessel" refers to simple, fragile clay jars—of little value in daily life, often full of cracks, perhaps even crudely mended. No special showpieces. But it is precisely through these cracks, through the visible weakness, that the light of Jesus shines through.

For Reflection

We sometimes expect that—the longer we are Christians—we will become strong, self-assured, spiritually powerful people. That our weaknesses will diminish over time so that God can finally "really use" us. But Paul has a different perspective: "My power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV)

What if faith is not at all about becoming great, strong, perfect, and successful—but about letting Jesus shine? Him—the treasure within us?

Perhaps it is your very weakness—your limitation, your brokenness, your life situation, the chaos in your family, your fatigue, your illness, your professional uncertainty, your feeling of being overwhelmed—that is the channel through which God wants to meet another person. In the church. Or in daily life.

Perhaps you are precisely that "ordinary, fragile vessel" through which Jesus wants to shine. Don't hide it. Don't put the treasure under a bushel. Don't try to feign perfection—but be honest. Because:

"What constitutes a reliable witness is solely their truthfulness and openness—and not their ability to put themselves in the best light." (Johannes Eckstein)

God is writing a unique story with you. What would we be missing if you didn't tell us about it? Jesus—the treasure in you—wants to shine.