Subaru? Love!

Being faithful in the smallest things is the way to gain, maintain and demonstrate the strength needed to accomplish something great. –Alex Harris


I own a 2005 Subaru Forester named Sherwood. (I come from a long line of car-namers.) Sherwood and I have been through a lot together in nine years. He got me safely to and from seminary in Ashland, Ohio, for three years. When the days were hot, my ride was cool; and in the winter, when the snows kept coming and coming—Sherwood kept going. Even when I was in the middle of unplowed Amish country, Sherwood barely flinched. (Any time I would ask him, “Would you like to go for a drive?” his answer was always the same: “Sure would!”)

In over 155,000 miles, I’ve gotten stuck—twice. But each time, I remembered all the times I didn’t get stuck. In this wintry weather, I don’t waste time worrying about whether Sherwood will get me where I need to go. As long as I attend to those things I can control—gas in the tank, for instance—I have every confidence based on my past experience.

I realized this week that my relationship with God can and should be similar. I do my part by attending to my spiritual health, and I pay attention. And during those days (weeks?) when things seem uncertain, or God seems distant, I remember. I remember God’s faithfulness in better times, and I know and trust that God will be faithful again.

Now that’s Love.

Monday Give thanks today for those who lead our country. Pray for their wisdom, and for peace in the world. Romans 13:3-5

Tuesday How close does God seem to you right now? Spend some time in silence today (even just a few minutes) and seek to draw closer. Mark 1:35-39

Wednesday Ash Wednesday If you haven’t already, pray today for God to share how God would have you subtract or add to your life during Lent. Romans 15:5-6

Thursday Remember today a time when you were particularly aware of God’s faithful presence in your life. (Try to think specifically). Psalm 85:9-13

Friday Find a way today to be a caretaker for your corner of God’s creation. Feed the birds. Start some herb plants from seed. Be creative. Genesis 2:19-20

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, ask God to show you reminders of God. They’re everywhere! Judges 6:36-40

Sunday Thank God today for the diverse voices and ways of thinking that (hopefully) find their way to your house of worship. Welcome someone to this place in the name of Jesus. I Corinthians 1:9


Life is too precious to permit its devaluation by living pointlessly, emptily, without meaning, without love, and finally, without hope. –Vaclav Havel

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