Ray Harris and I went to the same high school and later served as pastors in the same city. Now I’m pleased to introduce his new book, Fullness of Time: Devotionals, Poems, Pictures, and Prayers (Mill Lake Books, 2023).

This book beautifully reflects Ray’s years of ministry as Spiritual Care Coordinator at Tabor Village where he regularly led morning prayers, offered meditations on Scripture, and provided spiritual care to the senior residents.

His compassionate care and creativity are evident throughout the book, which includes devotional readings and poetry by Ray, plus photographs and art work by Ray, his family and friends, and Tabor residents. I especially appreciate the stories he shares of his interactions with various residents—singing and praying with them, sharing a laugh, offering words of kindness, and simply being present.

If you’re interested in devotional reading especially for seniors, if you’re a pastor or chaplain looking for a resource of short meditations, I’m happy to recommend Ray’s book. Below is an excerpt from Fullness of Time by Ray Harris, used with permission.

Jars of Clay

by Ray Harris

Praying Psalm 32
In you I find true joy, for you have forgiven transgressions. I acknowledge my sin to you; keeping silent was killing me. In times of distress, I pray: save me from the rush of mighty waters. I rejoice in your steadfast love.

Scripture Text: 2 Corinthians 4:7-9

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this
all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
– 2 Corinthians 4:7

Meditation
When I was in high school, I used to make pottery. We had a very gifted and generous art teacher who had developed a good ceramics studio with several wheels for throwing pottery as well as kilns and all the accessories. Our teacher would let us do everything from making the pottery, preparing it for the kiln, blazing it when ready, but would take care of the tasks that were particularly difficult, and that could result in shards of clay.

In Bible times, pottery was used for everyday household tasks. From carrying water, to preparing foods, to less public uses. These jars of clay were fragile, frequently broke with use, and needed renewing. Paul uses this metaphor of jars of clay, showing God’s surpassing power, and displaying our everyday weaknesses. The text also continues with assuring words that we are not abandoned, struck down or destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:9).

Our mortal journey begins in infancy where we are totally reliant on adults around us. Throughout our lives we need people supporting and helping us. Particularly as we age, we need different kinds of help. But God is our Refuge and Strength through all the days and years of our lives.

Suggested Song
“What A Friend We Have In Jesus”

Pray
Thank you, God, that your power and strength is made perfect through my weakness. Thank you that this fragile jar of clay, my life and gifts, can be used in your Kingdom. Use me today, I pray, to bless and love others,  proclaiming Jesus in word and deed. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Ray Harris is a follower of Jesus, a husband, father, Papa to eight grandchildren, a pastor, teacher, and musician. He loves providing spiritual care for older adults, singing with them, reading God’s word together, and coming alongside those in their journey with Jesus who need encouragement and prayer. Fullness of Time is available from Tabor Village and on Amazon.

Writing/Reflection Prompt: Ray’s book is studded with encouraging and thought-provoking quotes like this one: “If you find yourself thinking ‘there’s got to be more,’ that’s because there is.”

What “more” do you find yourself longing for?