It was a shining beautiful kettle with a large capacity and a high price. Being made of copper, it was valuable in its ability to heat quickly. Being made of copper, a useful metal, its alloys also gave it a gleam of gold. So it sat on the table of the merchantman and was prominently viewed by many.

Two of Jesus' disciples came to purchase a large kettle and inquired of the merchant the price. The merchant said, "I would really like to sell you this kettle, but I dare not. You see there is a small hole here at the edge and though it's unnoticeable, when the heat is on, the kettle won't hold water. I could have sold it many times because it looks so fine, but I know the customer would only return it and be angry with me. Its metal is so valuable I dare not sell it cheaply and because of the flaw I cannot sell it at all. Yet so many customers admire it. It is a real problem to me, because I have to explain this hidden flaw to so many customers. They say, 'Why do you keep it'."

The disciple said, "Why not take it to Jesus. He is able to restore and make right many hidden flaws."

The merchantman said, "Why I heard He was just a carpenter from Nazareth."

Said the disciple, "Not just a carpenter, He is also a Refiner of fine and precious metals. He is quick to discern weaknesses and always ready to mend and repair. He can see the possibilities for good in the most impossible situations. Yes, take it to Jesus."

The merchant said, "Gentlemen, I am glad you called."