“But the Lord God called out to the man, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9 GNT)
In the opening verse, God called out to the man, Adam. I’m calling out to all men and women who have a car. My question: ‘Where was your car this morning?’ Was it one of the vehicles that took advantage of the retail stores opening up early so you could benefit from the advertised sales and finish your Christmas shopping? Was it at the popular restaurant that serves a great breakfast and a grand brunch? You know, the food joint where you have to park so far away that you walk a half mile to get to the entrance. Where was your car this morning? Was it still parked over a “friends” house from the night before and you “stayed up” until you “fell asleep on the couch?” Where was your car this morning? Was it being driven down the highway, joining other early travelers, as you listened to some good old music, but not God related music? I’m meddling. I know it. But I have to ask, “Where was your care this Sunday morning, the last Sunday before Christmas? Was it still parked in your garage or in front of your house? Was it parked in the employee parking lot where you are employed, opting for the voluntary overtime as opposed to showing up for church right on time?
Now for you who are sick and shut in, I’m good with your car being parked on your property. And I am glad that you parked yourself in the house and tuned in to the assembly of the saints virtually. But for others, I am prompted to ask, “Where was your car this morning?” I’m talking about the one that the Lord blessed you with to drive. I’m talking about the one that you are able to pay for because the Lord blessed you with a paying job. I’m talking about the one that you ran through the best car wash in town, swept the interior, and shined up your wheels. That took some time! I’m talking about the car that the Lord provided you with enough cash to keep it running. I’m talking about the car that you rode in while the Lord watched over you as you were going out and as you were coming back in. Where was your car?
Why am I meddling? I’ll tell you! Often after church on Sunday, I drive through two strip malls to either get to a restaurant and pick up dinner or to stop at a bank adjacent to one of the malls. What do I see? I see parking lots full of nice-looking cars! Multiple times the number of cars that were parked in the church I pastor and many other nearby local churches, pales in comparison to the cars I see. Perhaps, just maybe, they go to a Saturday church service. Maybe they all went to the 8:00 a.m. service earlier. Maybe they attend a church in the mall. It’s possible! Okay, I will give some the benefit of the doubt, but how will you answer the question, “Where was your car?” Think about it. If your car did not make it to church, there will be another opportunity next week. A space patiently awaits you! God loves you! I love you! Be blessed!
“O my soul, bless God. From head to toe, I’ll bless his holy name! O my soul, bless God, don’t forget a single blessing! Psalm 103:1-2 The Message Bible)
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King