out of the ordinary | things around the house

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. This week vessels and utensils. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

In a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honour and some for dishonour. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honour, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. 2 Timothy 2:20-21, NKJV

When Paul writes about the great house he is thinking of the Church. In it, he says are both precious and lasting and valueless, everyday items. The enduring nature and beauty of the gold and silver items contrasts starkly with the fleeting and perishable nature of wood and clay.

Jesus would have seen many perishable items in the course of his life time but his focus was always on what is precious and lasting. In fact, he came to reveal the most enduring and beautiful of all beings - his Father - and his encouragement to us is to love the Father with such devotion we can’t help but be transformed by the Spirit into something set aside for the most honourable and significant purpose.

Ephesians 2:10 says we are created for, “good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (NIV) The good works include our careers, volunteer positions, relationships... We might feel unskilled, unqualified or unable to do these effectively but God doesn’t see it that way. He hasn’t set you up to fail by giving you things you can't do or be. You are equipped, supplied, instructed and filled. A vessel of honour. And what you do is precious and lasting.

Let's pray
Thank you, Father, that you a have made me a vessel of great honour. Thank you that when I see nothing but my imperfections and failures, you view me as flawless and successful. Thank you for lining up the good works I can do. Thank you, the privilege it is to serve you with my whole life. In Jesus' name. Amen.