But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.

2 Corinthians 4:7

How is your body holding up these days? Not always a comfortable question for an octogenarian like me. Senior adults properly tend to their physical life in Christ — exercise, a healthy diet, doctors’ appointments, and a safe place to live. Still, age takes its toll and limits our activities.

Paul takes a different approach to his physically challenging missionary life which includes persecution, afflictions, and life-threatening attacks. He points first to his greatest treasure — “the light of the Gospel of the glory of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Then he describes us as “jars of clay” (2 Corinthians 4:7) with many imperfections so that the treasure of Jesus shines through for everyone. Physically, we senior adults as well-preserved jars of clay, may lead others on the way to our heavenly home.

Stephen J. Carter
Oakville, MO

Jesus, my treasure, thanks for making me a common clay pot. Amen.

Reflect: How can you use your physical strengths or limitations to point to Jesus?

Read: 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 and Romans 7