September 19, 2026
— Marshall Broomhall · Source: Marshall Broomhall, "Editorial Foreword," in A Tamarisk Garden Blessed with Rain, or The Autobiography of Pastor Ren, trans. and ed. Herbert Hudson Taylor and Marshall Broomhall (London: China Inland Mission, 1930), pp. xiii–xvi
2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.
In our service and daily lives, we often long to be valued and recognized, yet we easily forget that we are but fragile and ordinary jars of clay. True spiritual power never lies in the talent or reputation of the vessel itself, but in Christ who is contained within. Only when we are willing to lay aside self-exaltation and hide ourselves like a tiny tamarisk in the wilderness, can God's gracious rain and surpassing power pour out through us without hindrance, refreshing the dry souls around us.
Dear Lord, thank You for choosing an ordinary jar of clay like me to hold the precious treasure of Your glorious gospel. Grant me a humble heart that does not seek personal fame or glory, but is willing to remain hidden behind You. May Your gracious rain water me daily, making my life a channel of Your grace. Through my weakness and service, may the world see not me, but only Your surpassing power and mercy. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!