"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves." (2 Cor. 4:7) We are earthen vessels -- clay pots. That, of course, is a reference to our bodies, our abilities, & the strength of our flesh. That is all we have to offer God . . . a pot, a perishable container. You may be brittle & delicate like china -- you may chip easily & maybe you show glue marks from times of being broken. But, you may be thick, rugged, & scarred . . . a hunk of heavy pottery. You may not be attractive, but you sure are useful. Or you may be composed of clay that hasn't been fired in a kiln & you're still being molded & shaped for use. But, then again, it's not the pot that's most important. What's important is the treasure inside -- the light & glory of Christ's salvation! Let's face it, what's a few dings or even a crack or two if others can see the glory inside through those cracks!