Ordinary. Normal. Typical. Mainstream.
When Bethany was born, I cried, worried, obsessed about her future and what it would look like. I just wanted her to fit in. To be “normal”.
Normal. Ordinary. Like everyone else.
Oh, brother! What in the world was I thinking? I never wanted our other kids to “fit in” and act like everyone else! Why would I ever want normal or typical for Bethany? For me? for anyone?
God has so much better than a typical, normal existence for us!
[Tweet “Why shoot for “ordinary”- the #power of God transforms us into #EXTRAordinary.”]
You remember Jesus said, the last will be first and the first will be last?
When I was younger- I had dreams of being “extraordinary”. Then life happened and I began to see I’m flawed- fragile- fearful- weak- needy- without strength to overcome life’s mountains and valleys.
But in God’s unshakeable kingdom- the truth is; the weak, the disenfranchised, the poor in spirit, the humble, the broken- are prime candidates for God’s glorious power to be displayed.
My fragile jar of clay is an exquisite treasure chest to be filled with the light of His love.
In other words: The more extra ordinary I can be on my own- the less I need God. The more ordinary I realize I am- the more I realize the only way to extraordinary is through God’s glory- the potential to be filled is limitless.
[Tweet “God’s grace is made #perfect in #weakness. #extraordinary”]
Bethany’s 23 chromosome “jar of clay” is genetically fragile- not typical- not normal. I love how she just is who she is- without pretense or insincerity. Pretty much the only way Bethany puts on a facade is to take a picture of herself (ourselves) on snapchat. lol (one of our finer moments)
[Tweet “God shines brighter through cracked pots. #extraordinary”]
I need “fragile” jars of clay in my life. It reminds me of my own brokenness. It inspires me to set my own “cracked pot” on display for all to see the glory and radiance of God shining through.
I hope my jar of clay shouts:
“Here I am world- look how imperfect I am and look what God is doing in me!”
Amazing Mystery: a broken and flawed jar of clay– showcasing the glory of God.
Surprising Treasure:
We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. This treasure is the excellency of the power of Christ.
II Cor. 4:7
Precious Cindy, I love reading your reflections on life in the light of God’s Word. This “fits the bill” so well for the poor souls burdened with the weight of legalism and perfectionism, as if living for Jesus is within our power all on our own. Praise the Lord, the fragrance of Jesus perfumes the world through our broken cracks, revealing His grace and glory! My heart overflows with His everlasting love for you and your dear ones. Hugs!
Thank you Edy. You’re such a beautiful jar of clay that shines brightly in my life! One day- dear sister- we’re going to get an upgrade to a glorious new body and live in His glory and grace! Whoooooo-eeeeee! hugs
“And here’s why: GOD gives out Wisdom free, is plainspoken in Knowledge and Understanding. He’s a rich mine of Common Sense for those who live well, a personal bodyguard to the candid and sincere. He keeps his eye on all who live honestly, and pays special attention to his loyally committed ones.”
Proverbs 2:6-8 MSG
I love that God is a bodyguard to the candid and sincere. Thank you, for being honest.
Hey Pam! How are you doing sweet, precious one!!?! I love that word- especially in the Message. a personal bodyguard- to the candid and sincere- 🙂 Isn’t it wonderful that the more we diminish- the more He increases. I feel like I’m going into my second childhood- shedding the burdens of adulthood and embracing being God’s girl- letting my Abba fill me- teach me- equip me- ahhhhhh- His power and strength are so much better than mine. 🙂
I was just thinking of you yesterday, and then this post appeared in my inbox. What a blessing you are!
Hope all is well with you and your beautiful family.
Blessings,
Susan
Thank you for such a great example of why extraordinary is ordinary with the Lord.
Amen!
She looks lovelier and lovelier as time goes by. 🙂
Hi Cindy thank you for your moving blog. I am a christian and am putting together an art display for our church on the ‘light piercing the darkness’ and would like to ask permission to use your beautiful picture of the clay pot at the top of this blogas a reference (ie I’m going to paint a picture using this as a reference) in one of the displays. it will be one of six other paintings displayed in the shape of the cross. It will be displayed in the stair well of our church in St Ives, Cambs; and will not be redistributed or sold, and I receive no monies either.
I look forward to your reply
Love in Christ
Kerio