My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.

James 1:2-4

Each piece of Raku pottery is hand-crafted and one of a kind. So are we. Once the clay has been formed, it is fired in a kiln. So are we. Then, glowing red hot, it is thrust into a smoldering sawdust pile where it remains until finished, just as we are. The result is a unique product, which is one of a kind, just as we are.

We are the workmanship and craftsmanship of our God. We were created in Jesus Christ for good works. God prepared us, before we were born, for a role. But though we are created for good works, we are not yet finished. We must experience the kiln of affliction. Aching hearts, weary spirits, aging bodies are the processes God uses to finish the work He has begun in us.

Don't fear the furnace that surrounds you. We are to be patient with our trials and tribulations. Patience with God allows Him to bring out our best. We are to be perfect and complete, lacking nothing, but in God's time.

He who has begun a good work in you

will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.

Our Daily Bread - January 13, 2004