2 Corinthians 4:7 “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves.”

Sometimes a little bit of light makes ordinary things special.

Twinkle lights strung from the rafters of an old barn create a romantic atmosphere. Christmas bulbs encircling a typical evergreen bring delight to people of all ages. And a candle lit inside a large orange pumpkin produces big smiles.

This weekend was packed full of activity. John-Keith and Naomi came from Boston to visit, and we spent a lovely time celebrating the autumn season with family and friends. Our Harvest Party, a square dance and some great family time kept us hopping.

When all the hoopla was finished, the kids took the leftover pumpkins and created a family of jack-o-lanterns. The smiling faces of the mama, daddy and baby pumpkin lit up as the candles inside them gently burned – an ordinary vegetable given new life because of a light within.

Those who receive Jesus as Savior are transformed in a similar way. Our earthly bodies are filled with the Holy Spirit who shines His light through us to the world.

The Apostle Paul said that God’s children are like ordinary earthen vessels containing the greatness of the power of God. We struggle with infirmities and difficulties just like everyone else, but we have the ability to overcome and share the message of the gospel with great power because God works in and through us.

With God doing the work, we cannot accept any accolades. Our weaknesses prove that the power we possess is from God.

As the years go by, our physical bodies will deteriorate. But we do not need to lose heart. The inner light provided by the Spirit of God will shine brighter and brighter as we allow Him to fill us. Despite our frailty we will someday see how God has used us to illuminate the world that lives in spiritual darkness.

Ordinary pumpkins are transformed when a light shines brightly within. So, too, an everyday man or woman, boy or girl who has Jesus living within brightens a dark world with the light of God. Let God shine through you and allow Him to make ordinary you something truly beautiful and special.

Sandra Sheridan is a Midwest wife and mother of five. She shares her messages to her children with Farm World. Visit her at www.VersesFromMama.com