The Vessel

In one of the commentaries I'm using for my study in the book of James, I came across a poem that God has used to speak to me a number of times in the last several weeks. May I share it with you? Hope it blesses you too!

THE VESSEL

by B. V. Cornwall

The Master was searching for a vessel to use,
Before Him were many, which one would He chose?

"Take me," cried the gold one. "I'm shiny and bright,
I'm of great value and I do things just right.
My beauty and luster will outshine the rest.
And for someone like you, Master, gold would be best."

The Master passed on with no word at all.
And looked at a silver urn, grand and tall.
"I'll serve you, dear Master, I'll pour out your wine.
I'll be on your table whenever you dine.
My lines are so graceful, my carving so true.
And silver will always compliment you."

Unheeding, the Master passed on to the brass,
Wide-mouthed and shallow and polished like glass.
"Here, here!" cried the vessel, "I know I will do,
Place me on your table for all men to view."

"Look at me," called the goblet of crystal so clear,
"My transparency shows my contents so dear.
Though fragile am I, I will serve you with pride,
And I'm sure I'll be happy in your house to abide."

Then the Master came next to a vessel of wood,
Polished and carved, it solidly stood.
"You may use me, dearest Master," the wooden bowl said.
"But I'd rather you used me for fruit, not for bread."

Then the Master looked down and saw a vessel of clay.
Empty and broken it helplessly lay.
No hope had the vessel that the Master might choose,
To cleanse, and make whole, to fill and to use.

"Ah, Now this is the vessel I've been hoping to find.
I'll mend it and use it and make it all mine.
I need not the vessel with pride of itself,
Nor one that is narrow to sit on the shelf,
Nor one that is big-mouthed and shallow and loud,
Nor one that displays his contents so proud,
Nor the one who thinks he can do things just right,
But this plain earthly vessel filled with power and might."

Then gently He lifted the vessel of clay,
Mended and cleansed it and filled it that day:
Spoke to it kindly - "There's work you must do . . .
Just pour out to others as I pour into you."

Father, forgive me for the times I have been a vessel with pride in myself. Forgive me for the times I have been narrow and steeped in legalism. Father, forgive me for the times I have been shallow and dishonored Your goodness with a complaining mouth. Forgive me for the times I have pridefully flaunted transparency that was self-righteous instead of glorifying to You. Forgive me for the many times I have thought I could accomplish Your work according to my own plans. Continue Your wonderful work of mending and cleansing the vessel of clay that I am. Fill me with Your Spirit. Let Him shine through all my broken places. Let me pour out to others only that which You pour into me!