The Cup, The Cross, and the Treasure in Clay

Acts 4:33; 5:12.27-33; 12:2; Psalm: 126; 2Cor 4:7-15; Mt 20:20-28

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, we will reflect on the Cup, the Cross, and the Treasure in Clay. Together, we will delve into the story of the first apostolic martyr, James, and how his legacy illuminates our path today.

Let us first turn our attention to the martyrdom of James, as recounted in Acts 12. James, the brother of John, was executed by Herod Agrippa I. His death, occurring around AD 44, fulfills the prophecy of Christ when He told His disciples, “You will drink my cup.” This cup, my dear friends, is not merely a vessel but a symbol of the suffering that accompanies true discipleship. James’ execution embodies the essence of witness, or as we say in Greek, martyria. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that martyrdom is the supreme witness given to the truth of our faith. St. James’ ultimate sacrifice calls to each of us to consider what it truly means to follow Christ. Now, what does this “Cup” represent in our lives today?

In Matthew 20, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the cup He must drink. This cup is filled with trials and tribulations, but also overflowing with grace, love, and the promise of eternal life. When we are faced with the burdens of our own lives, we are invited to embrace our individual cups. Every trial we encounter is an opportunity to grow closer to God. In our struggles, we find strength. In our suffering, we find purpose. As we reflect on James’ martyrdom, we cannot overlook the paradox of weakness that the Apostle Paul speaks about in 2 Corinthians. Paul tells us that we have this treasure in clay jars to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. This treasure is the love of Christ, the promise of salvation, and the hope that sustains us. But what does it mean to be a clay jar? It means acknowledging our fragility. It means embracing our weaknesses. It means allowing God’s power to shine through our imperfections. St. James’ witness is not just a story from the past. It speaks to us in our own times of persecution and injustice. Across the globe, many Christians face trials that test their faith. In the face of hostility, we are reminded of James’ courage. We must find our own courage to stand against injustice and to be a voice for the voiceless. We must not shy away from our convictions even when it is difficult. Like James, we are called to be witnesses of the truth.

In our lives, we often encounter scandal and doubt within the Church. But here is where the treasure in clay jars shines brightest. The Church is filled with sinners, yet it is also the vessel through which God’s grace flows. When we see weakness, we must remember that hope is alive in the midst of our brokenness. The holiness of the Church is not diminished by our failures but rather illuminated by our capacity for redemption and forgiveness. We also carry personal burdens. Each of us has faced illness, loss, and suffering. In these moments, we are invited to embrace the cup of our own lives. Each day presents us with a choice. Will we allow our struggles to define us, or will we rise and walk with Christ? Embracing our daily dying means living with the understanding that our lives are a testament to the power of God. We find strength not in our perfection but in our willingness to be vulnerable.

So, how can we be clay jars for Christ? First, we must acknowledge our weaknesses. We must be honest about our struggles and our shortcomings. In doing so, we create space for God’s light to shine. Second, we must radiate Christ in our daily lives. Through acts of kindness, love, and service, we become vessels of His grace in a world that desperately needs it. Each small act of love is a reflection of the treasure we hold within. Finally, we are called to walk the Camino of service. Life is a journey, and we are to walk hand in hand with one another. In service, we discover not only our purpose but also the joy of community. Each step we take in serving others is a step we take closer to Christ. We become the hands and feet of Jesus in a world that longs for hope.

As we conclude today, let us carry with us the powerful example of James, the witness of his martyrdom, and the invitation to embrace our own cups. Let us remember that while we may be fragile clay jars, we hold a treasure beyond measure. May we shine brightly in our weakness, radiate the love of Christ, and walk together on the path of service. Amen.

Pope St. John Paul II: “The blood of martyrs is the seed of the New Evangelization.”

St. Augustine: “The Apostles were clay jars—cowards turned courageous by grace. So are we.”

Pope Francis on servant leadership:

“James learned: the throne of God is the washing of feet. Apostleship is service, not status” (Homily, 2019).

St. Teresa of Ávila on 2 Cor 4:7:

“God’s grace works best in cracked pots! Our weakness is the fissure through which His glory pours.”

St. Óscar Romero (martyr) on the “cup”:

“To drink Christ’s cup is to share in the suffering of the poor. This is true apostolic honor.”