Nowadays outward appearance seems to be the main attraction. Self-improvement seems to be our greatest pursuit. Whatever we can do to make ourselves look younger, richer, sexier or healthier is all the rage. Our culture says it is all about looking good.

However, Paul did not focus on the perishable container, but the imperishable. That is, not our body, but on its priceless, eternal contents – the power of God dwelling in us. Paul tells us that we are like common clay jars, which are created from the raw earth, yet inside we possess the brilliant light of glory, Jesus Christ, and carry Him as a treasure inside of us. The outward vessel of our body is not as important as the glorious treasure of Christ within.

It is not the candle holder itself that draws us towards it in admiration, but the glowing light that emanates from within. The warm, soft light that pours forth from the jar is the most 

important part of the vessel. And in the same way, the most important part of us is not our physical appearance, but the light of Christ shining out from us, drawing others to Him. No one will ever see Christ in us if we are only working on our outward selves. After all, we are only common clay jars. It is the inner life, the Christ life within that will make us truly beautiful.

Jesus, help me to remember that your presence living in me is what makes me beautiful and appealing. Amen.

Jesus poured out His blood for the New Covenant of grace and truth, replacing the Old Covenant letter of the law of Moses. Believers are exclusively under the New Covenant, the last will and testament of Jesus that began after the cross.