A frequent theme in the Bible is that we humans are weak. Our sin makes us weak; the ease with which the devil can lead us away from God’s will demonstrates that we are weak; our inability to control the events in our lives further proves that we are weak.

Another frequent theme in the Bible is “the all-surpassing power” of God who has saved us! By Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are set free from the guilt of our sins; death has been destroyed by Jesus! We live in the constant certainty of eternal life. We live in the assurance that our guilt is washed away in the blood of Christ and God is not angry with us – not even a little bit!

Paul wrote about these themes in the verses above. We are “jars of clay.” We appear incredibly fragile and unsuitable to be used for anything glorious. And yet, we see the depth of God’s love in ourselves. The troubles – not even death – do not and cannot win! Jesus has claimed you to be a vessel that displays his love for humanity. His forgiveness fills you.

For the rest of your days on earth you will continue to be a “jar of clay.” And for the rest of eternity, you will loved by God and he will fill you with life. Live in the peace of knowing how you are because of God’s grace.

2 Corinthians 4:7–12 (NIV) "But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you."

Pastor Aufdemberge

Pastor Kneser

Pastor Wempner

Pastor Zarling