Cracked pots can be a blessing and why God loves us, flaws and all
A few months ago I read a story, that Nicky Gumble published in a series of readings.
A water-bearer in India had two large pots, both hung on the ends of a pole, which he carried across his neck.
One of the pots had a crack in it, while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water.
At the end of the long walk from the stream to the house, the cracked pot always arrived half full.
“I am ashamed of myself, and I apologise to you,” the pot said. “I have been able to deliver only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house. “Because of my flaws, you have to do all of this hard work and you don’t get full value for all your efforts.”
The bearer said to the pot: “Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot’s side?
“That’s because I have always known about your flaw, and I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back you watered them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table.
“Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.”
It is a lovely story, but it speaks so much about how individuals can be used by God to bring a beautiful change to the lives of others.
So often we think we need to be perfect to help others, to have life sorted.
The Bible is full of people who weren’t perfect, but God used them in a wonderful way.
In fact, the 12 disciples were a mixed bunch with all kinds of flaws.
What does this say to us about God?
It says He is a God of love, who accepts us just as we are. We don’t
It speaks so much about how individuals can be used by God to bring a beautiful change to the lives of others
have to be perfect people for God to love us and use us, but He takes us as we are and is able to do some amazing things in us and through us.
Have you ever thought you would like to help someone, speak a word of encouragement to them, but then thought, who am I? I’m not perfect.
Cracked pots can be a blessing. Do you think about how God sees you? Thinking if only I was a better person God would love me? God wants us to come to Him as we are, warts and all.