Read: 2 Corinthians 4:6-18
We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. (v. 7 NLT)
As a Christian with a firm Judeo-Christian worldview, it’s hard for me to understand why the world races to achieve immortality when God has already promised it. And yet, in 2013 Google started a company called Calico to explore technology as a means to defeat death. TV personality and futurist Jason Silva said, “The most exciting scientific development of the next 10–60 years will be radical life extension . . . I see it as a natural next step for our species.”
Paul teaches us something different. He tells us that we carry the treasure of the gospel in the fragile clay jars of our bodies. The weakness of our bodies is the point, not something to be overcome. Just as we carry death in our bodies, we also carry life for the glory of God.
Paul’s message is echoed throughout the Bible. We read of a God who locked the garden gate to the tree of life lest sinful humans live forever (Gen. 3:22), a God who confused the languages of those who wanted to build a “tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves” (Gen. 11:4 NIV). A God who gives life, loves life, and desires to be loved in return, not ignored, not confronted by rebellion. The free gift of eternal life is so much better than “a radical life extension.” —Amy Clemens
As you pray, ask to use the light of the gospel in your fragile clay jar for God’s purposes.
About the Author
With a bachelors in journalism from Texas Tech University and a masters from Western Theological Seminary, Amy Clemens enjoys all things writing, particularly about the life of faith. She is blessed with a family that includes husband Fred, five children, and five grandchildren.
Amy has just published her first book, "Walking When You'd Rather Fly: Meditations on Faith After the Fall," which weaves her journey from childhood abuse toward healing and spiritual growth with a practical theology for the big story of God. You can find out more about the book and author at walkingwhenyoudratherfly.com.
