Corinthians 4:7-12

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. 8 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. 11 For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So death is at work in us, but life in you. - 2 Corinthians 4:7-12

Dear Jesus,

Everything in my culture teaches me to mourn, grieve and resist the perplexity of suffering.  It doesn't matter if it's natural aging, loss of memory, my clumsiness, or the rejection of others.  I'm taught to hate it all.  But the truth is: you allow and even dictate many fractured moments in my life so the excellency of your power and grace will shine through my life.  You don't want people to look and me and miss you.  You want them to see you helping me live peacefully and lovingly even with the burden of life. I'm a jar of clay and you are the wonderful life giving water inside me.  Oh Jesus, teach me to embrace my weaknesses as the stage upon which you shine. 

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Don't try to hide your weaknesses.  Instead let people see Jesus make you happy in spite of them.