THE FIRE, THEN THE GLAZE

we are all born to be clay on
the Potters table
yearning to be molded by
prophetic hands, blistered and worn
the markings of a Master Artist who’s
been working with His hands longer
then His name existed

we are all eager to be crafted
but fear the fire

it’s what we all need though
to feel the flame of renewal
it’s what the Potter wants
it’s what He came here to do

passing us through the fire triumphantly
glazed and useful
making beautiful creations
destined to become bowls
some spoons
some cups
ready to hold the Water of Life

but He knows
that purpose is found first by being wise to be useful
and then willing
willing to be broken and made new

there is no fear in being broken
when the One who loves you more
than life is holding you

no piece broken will be lost
no one is ever lost
just waiting to be found
and when He finds you
be ready to be emptied
while empty
prepare to be filled
so filled to overflowing
we wet the feet of those who thirst around us

what joy to water the earth!

but first, the molding
then the carving
the fire, then the glaze

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From THE TRUTH ABOUT LOVE

All poems are copyrighted by Marquida Roberts.
To be reprinted only by permission of the author.