The formed clay vessel is now ready to become mature. It is the Fire that makes this happen. The vessel is set aside to dry. Clay must be completely water free in order to survive in the Fire. At the time of Firing (heating in a large oven-like kiln), there must be no moisture left in the clay or else when the heat rises, evaporation is so fast that the piece is destroyed. It can shatter or even explode. The Potter knows the precise timing for the slow rise in temperature. It is a gradual rising of the heat of the Fire that transforms the molecular structure of clay particles until they actually melt and fuse together into a glassy structure. The clay is not consumed by fire, it is transformed.

This transformation of the clay happens in the first firing and prepares it for a higher firing where a glaze of color and shine is applied and the piece fired again. Another transformation appears as the color of the raw materials painted on the surface of the clay turn into wonderful and sometimes, brilliant colors. This can only happen in the Fire. Also in this same firing, the surface texture is matured. The surface may be glossy with a clear and brilliant reflection of light coming from it, or smooth with a satin sheen, or it can be matt, similar to the clay surface. But most important of all, it is mature. The Maturation Point of a clay vessel is that point of density produced in the body of the clay which will give it a clear ring when struck like a bell. What would happen to the vessel if it did not become mature? If the Fire continued to rise higher beyond this point, the clay would melt and turn into what looks like volcanic lava. If the fire never reached the maturation point for the clay, it would be too porous to hold its contents to be of any good use.

Many times the Bible speaks to us of going through the Fire in terms of going though the trials and tribulations of life. This is common to all. Life is not perfect, there is pain, loss, and circumstance that we all face at various times in life which can labeled as tribulation or trial. These trials can have the potential to destroy us, or to transform us. What a comfort to learn that clay is transformed in the Fire, not consumed. Your most vulnerable area may be tested in the Fire, but the promise is that the Potter, the Father, will never leave you nor forsake you. You can come to the other side of the Fire giving Him Glory and reflecting His presence in your life. Let the Fire make you mature in the midst of it. Pain is a powerful teacher to learn many lessons. Face life with hope and promise.