Choice Silver

I recently went on vacation to see my Mom and Dad. Down the street from them there is a little Art studio where you can take classes. So, like last year, I signed up to take a class. This time I took the clay and metals jewelry class.

The instructor gave us a small piece of clay that is mixed with silver. This silver is actually purer than sterling silver. We are given a small square of it. It is ours to do with as we wish. There are all kinds of designs that can be done, but since I love birds so much I decided to make a pendant with a bird on it.

After you have fashioned it like you want it, you then put it into a kiln specially made for the microwave. It is heated at about 1300-1400 degrees for about 2-3 minutes. When it comes out it is rather disappointing because it looks like baked clay. But once I, (the maker) starting buffing it with a wire brush and it was buffed by a cloth, something miraculous happens! It starts to shine! That was exciting how something so plain as a piece of clay could be turned into a thing of beauty.

The Lord spoke to my heart and said, "This is how it is with your life... there are times when you have been through trials and you can't see or understand what I am doing but trust me. I am shining you up and making something beautiful that I can use for my kingdom."

God's Word says, " He will sit as a smelter and purifier of silver... and refine them like gold and silver, so that they may present to the Lord offerings in righteousness." Malachi 3:3

When a silversmith refines the fire He holds it. The Master artisan knows just the right amount of time the silver must be in the fire before it melts. You may ask, "But how does He know when the silver is ready? He knows when He can see His own reflection!

Lord, I thank you that when I have gone through the fiery trials, I know that you are right there with me, holding me, shining and polishing me into your image. If you can see your own image, I am beautiful to you! May I present my offering of righteousness to you, Amen.