...clay

Ceramics are classified based on the temperature used to fire them—the higher the heat, the more durable the ceramic piece will be. Porcelain is a high-fire ceramic, fired at temperatures ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. 

As a result, it is pressure resistant to 5,000 kilograms per centimeter squared. In other words, a railroad car weighing around 11 tons could be placed on top of a two centimeter square piece of porcelain without breaking the porcelain.

The process of making a piece of fine porcelain—a product as strong as it is beautiful—is anything but comfortable. First, a piece is molded or turned on a wheel. Then an artisan removes sharp edges, such as seams, from a mold. Next a piece is annealed (heated and gradually cooled), which leaves it as hard as leather. Then it is glazed and fired in the kiln. After firing, rough patches are polished. Sometimes accents are added, like a metallic trim on fine china. 

The results of this uncomfortable process are fantastic! Porcelain tiles have graced the walls of palaces, and fine china has decorated the tables of kings. 

God’s process with His people is similar. Just as the artisan is in complete control of the clay, God is in complete control of our lives: “O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of your hand” (Isaiah 64:8). Just as the clay must be fired before it is useful, God’s people must repent of their sins before they can become all He intends. 

Isaiah recognized this and pled with God: “Do not be furious, O Lord, Nor remember iniquity forever; Indeed, please look—we are all Your people!” (Isaiah 64: 9). Just as fine porcelain eventually becomes both beautiful and strong, God will not give up on His people until they have become what He desires for them. 

"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:" - Philippians 1:6

-doug batchelor