Several ceramic workshops are found in Larnaca's old town. Most are open for visits, during which the potters can be observed at work. I just happened to be passing Studio Ceramics on Akdeniz Street when I decided to explore a little inside.
Studio Ceramics produce replicas of ancient and medieval pottery using the sgraffito (from Italian to scratch) technique. They also create personal items for special occasions and have on display unique creations by the owner, Efthemios Symeou.
As I watched the potter at work, I was reminded of the words in Isaiah 64:8:
But now, O LORD, you are our Father;
we are the clay, and you are our potter;
we are all the work of your hand.
When the potter took the hard lump of clay at first, she had to work it in her hands before she could put it on the wheel. Perhaps we are sometimes like that lump of hard clay to the extent that our Creator cannot mould us as He desires. When we open our hearts to Him and His will, He can shape us and create something beautiful for His glory.
We were created to have fellowship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ, who loved us unto death. Have we thanked Him for His love and mercy?
Just as the potter keeps her hands on the clay, we can trust God to keep us safe and protected. God our Creator knows what is best for us and will lead us accordingly. It is reassuring to know we are in His hands at all times!
With the Potter's hand on our lives, we will have the rough edges smoothed and rounded until we start looking like a 'new creation'. Our broken dreams can be reshaped and our path renewed as the Divine Potter skillfully remoulds us. It is never too late to start again when surrendered to the Master's touch. May we trust Him more!
Have Thine own way, Lord!
Have Thine own way!
Thou art the potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.
Adelaide Pollard