Like Stained Glass

I adore stained glass – everything about it – the craftsmanship – the beautiful depth of colour (or the subtly of colour) – its historical value – the way it changes in the light – and especially  the fact that such beautiful work can evolve from clay, pewter, and rusty ole’ iron!

There are many locations where you can view outstanding works in stained glass. Many of the best examples of stained glass art can be found in churches and synagogues. There are also plenty of fine examples in public libraries throughout the world. The Armstrong Browning Library – at Baylor University offers an excellent showing of stained glass, as does the San Diego Supreme Court Hall of Justice, and the Barberton Public Library in Barberton, Ohio. Maybe you’re aware that The Willard Chapel in Auburn, New York has one of the rarest, most precious and unique displays of stained glass by Louis C. Tiffany. Yes, “THE” Tiffany & Co. for the now famous “little blue box.” The church is definitely one of a kind, and a “must see” place if you’re ever travelling through New York state.

There’s one particular thing about stained glass – it really has to go through the fire! In both the early stages AND the late stages of its development. After the clay goes through a blistering refining process to draw out minerals and impurities, it bakes in a glass kiln. It bakes long and slowly. (Not to minimize, but it is sort of like baking a cake. Once the aroma permeates your home, sometimes it feels like it takes forever for it to finish baking! It takes us awhile to grow, bake, and heal too).

Maybe Christians are like stained glass too! I know there have been times I personally struggled with finding joy in the valley, or being happy when I’ve been hurt by people. The Bible tells us to “count it all joy!” James 1: 2-3 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; ³ Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But I understand that it’s part of the refining process. Literally or spiritually going through the fire! God is using these things for my good – not my demise.

Remember: Because you’re going through the fire – or perhaps you’ve been through the fire lately – it doesn’t mean God isn’t there for you! Sometimes He will deliver you FROM the fire...Other times He will make you fireproof and take you THROUGH the fire!

Look UP my friends!