THROUGH THE FIRE!

The clay bowl with lid purchased in Control, Mexico.

One day on one of our trips across the border into Mexico, we drove through the little town of Control.  Control is an interesting little town on one of the main roads between Rio Bravo and Matamoros.  A railroad track dissects the place; and there is evidence that at one time this was a busy commercial area devoted mainly to agriculture.  Now most of the buildings are abandoned, but there is still a petroleum establishment, some grain elevators and the usual small stores along the heavily traveled road.

A pottery stand caught our attention, so we stopped to see their wares.  Behind the pottery stand was a strange looking cone shaped structure we soon learned was a kiln or oven for firing pottery.  Evidently, they made the pottery there and baked it themselves.

I picked out a bowl with a lid that resembled a casserole dish.  Wanting to use the vessel for serving traditional Mexican dishes, I needed to be sure it would be suitable.  The gentleman who waited on us was happy to talk about his pottery, so I asked him if the bowl and lid could be used for food and if they could be put into a hot oven without breaking.

His interest in his craft was evident as he eagerly pointed out the kiln and other equipment behind the little open shed.  "Of course it can be used!" he said emphatically.  "It has already been through the fire!"

We purchased the pretty clay bowl with the lid and brought it home with us.   It always reminds us that as sure as the little clay vessel could be used in a hot oven, we can be vessels for the Lord because we have already been through the fire!

"Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." 2 Timothy 2:3