"But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken, struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may always be manifested in our bodies." 2 Corinthians 4:7-10 (ESV)
We carry this hope, a treasure in our jars of clay, which shows up strong in the midst of despair. Japan's triple distaster in March of this year brought distraction and despair. Yet in the midst of the pain, God shows up strong and hope is on the horizon. I couldn't be more proud of our Asian Access staff who have actively reached out to provide hope, care, and relief in the midst of one of the worst disaters in our history. The stories of pastors and our staff reaching out will inspire you. You can read their incredible reports by accessing them through our A2 Blog Centre.
I am presently in Japan and recently returned from a restricted access country where I was with our first graduating class of pastors in that country. Again, hope in the midst of despair is the story of the hour. Pastor after pastor spoke of horrific persecution and pressures, some living through the war and also living through horrendous tragedies. Most have faced the pressures of the communist government. Yet, in the midst of all the pain, hope shines bright in their hearts. The joy of the Lord is clearly their strength.
What joy it is to journey with these pastors and our staff in bringing hope through our small, broken clay jars. Meditate on the surrounding passage with verses above and see the hope that God is bringing. For in the midst of great pain and great loss, the Lord brings tremendous hope.
Thank you for being a bearer of hope in your partnership with us in "extending the transforming power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ."
For His Kingdom,
