Who knew that a winding country road in
Georgia would lead to something so unexpected. Its simple path led to a big barn-like office and maybe an acre of land. Looking in the distance I could see the lovely port-a-potties and the ever exciting solar outdoor showers. The plot of land was inviting all of us to “pitch “our tents for the ten day training that was to prepare us for the life changing event that we’re all embarking on.
Who knew that I would come to this spot of red
Georgia “clay” to begin some of my own stripping away? I felt as if I was the clay pot that was somewhat polished with some of the layers of paint coming off and showing through. Still looking classy and feeling quite new I think the Potter had a different idea for this creation. The first layer of stripping began with a few intense days of beginning to really focus on hearing the Potter’s voice. This process was so vital in recognizing the “layers” that needed to be stripped away. It was amazing how I heard His voice directing me on how to pray for others, what He wanted to say to them and ultimately to “me”. At first I fought it. Thinking that previous layers had been peeled and repainted with clean fresh paint over the years and didn’t need to be repaired again. I didn’t want the Potter to be bothered. So much work for
a “clay” pot. After several days the potter’s voice was constantly reminding me of HIS strength and endurance and how I’m not just a clay pot but THE clay pot. I’m His final masterpiece. A little tiffed that the process of stripping had to continue the Potter reminded me of a song. “Refiners Fire, my hearts
one desire, is to be Holy set apart for you my Master. Willing to do your will.” My heart finally gave way. “Ok, Lord, strip me. Do what you have to do, begin the refiner’s process.” Throughout the training that is what the Master did. I began grieving and releasing things that I didn’t realize needed grieving over. This process was amazing and life changing. After this one layer (and it wasn’t as painful as I thought ;)) I was able to allow Him to strip more. He then was able to start painting on His truth, His strength, His love and ultimately releasing more of His power on me. It was amazing, scary, and so full of freedom all bound together. This time I knew I was beautiful because my Maker made sure I was. He stripped me, prepared me, and refined me.
Who knew that this
Georgia road would lead me to a week that held such high expectations for me? Friendships and bonding with other kindred adventurers. All of us were putting our lives in the Potter’s hand. Training and equipping from experienced Godly men and woman. Their experiences and wisdom seeped into these newly willing vessels. Leaving the red
Georgia clay was a little sad. The amazing things the Lord did on that land cannot be forgotten. As I was driving away He spoke boldly to me… “Just wait and see what I can do in the green lands of Africa or in the humidity in South America, or through the culture of
Asia”…Wow I can’t wait to be stripped again.
