The Serving Vessel

I wrote this poem back in the early 2000s. It conveys my belief that we are being used not in spite of being depressed or anxious or imperfect. We are being used because of it.

The Serving Vessel

My soul cried out to God, “Why am I not worthy to be whole?” His voice came back to me. “Oh, my child, you are more than worthy to be whole. You are worthy to be broken.”

“A serving vessel is often placed in the oven—alone—to withstand the flames of the fire. Heated to exacting temperatures, the vessel keeps what it is given hot and ready for its Master; or left in the cold it preserves the cool refreshment placed within its charge.”

“Many times the serving vessel is submerged in water where abrasive cleaners scratch its surface to wash away stains left by wasted bread.

A serving vessel passes through many hands— some clumsy, some capable and sure. It is often chipped and scarred by serving utensils gathering its bounty; dropped by carelessness, or set on the shelf until needed again.”

“A protected vessel sits in the place of honor seen only from a distance, untouched for fear it might break, unused and unfulfilled.”

“Yes, my child. You are more than worthy to be whole. You are worthy to be broken.”

Crushed Olive Ministries