Minister’s letter - June 08

Dear friends,

At our recent Elder’s Conference the Kirk Session agreed unanimously to adopt a new model that is shaped to meet the challenges of offering improved care and providing more effective contact with our Congregation. The new approach is firmly based on the biblical principle that God’s people use their gifts to care for one another and do ministry together.

For this new model to work effectively some members of the Congregation will be identified and approached to ascertain their willingness to fulfil the different roles required. Training meetings will be arranged and responsibilities outlined after which we hope, those identified will volunteer to get involved. I hope that each person approached will seriously consider getting involved in this shared approach to ministry. I know that many feel that they have little or nothing to offer but maybe the following story will encourage you to think otherwise.

I was recently reminded of the story of an Indian water carrierwho every morning took two large pots to the well. He carried them home, one at each end of a long pole. The problem was that one of the pots was cracked and by the time he returned from the well at least half of its contents had leaked away. According to the story, the defective pot was in deep despair one day and told the carrier that he needed to find a replacement. ‘I’m useless,’ it exclaimed. ‘I never do my job properly. You need to find a better pot.’

The carrier spoke with reassurance. ‘Have you never noticed the flowers that grow at the side of the path to the well? Because I knew about your flaw, I planted seeds there. Every day as we return I carry you on that side of the path, and as we walk, you water them. How else could I pick such beautiful flowers to adorn my master’s table each day? Were you not the way you are, the master would not have had such beauty to grace his house.’

The story of the pot has a point. God knows that we are not perfect and flaws can have their uses. The by-product of our failures can often prove to be better than the dreams of our achievements. As Jesus expressed it, ‘My power is made perfect in weakness’ (2 Cor. 12:9).

Believe me, it’s true and it is no hindrance to ministry. I should know. I’m a cracked-pot!

Paul says that as Christians we are all very ordinary vessels (clay jars) containing priceless ‘treasure’ which is ‘the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ’. It is humbling that God should be best able to work through us when we are weak and dependent on him, but we should rejoice that He chooses to do so.

I have confidence that if you are approached to become involved in this exciting initiative that you will prayerfully consider it. Cracked-pots are required!

Blessings,

Iain Morrison