
Some of the guests/tourists who arrive in our small town seem to think that they’re still in the big city or in another state (esp. Illinois!). They drive as though Germany’s Autobahn has taken the place of Highway 51.
Of special interest is when I get cut off in traffic and am given the universal symbol of dislike and “unaffection” by a driver sporting a church window sticker on the back window of the vehicle. I have questions: Does this mean that the members of this particular church are less Christian than any other church? Since Christians know they’re going to heaven no matter what, are they allowed to drive however they want?
Having had less than stellar motoring moments myself, this is precisely the reason why I do not sport a church window sticker on my rear window. That, and it’s just not my thing.
I need to remember that when Christians fail – when I fail – it’s not Christ’s fault. Every believer is a work in progress that will not be finished until the Lord determines that our time on this earth is done. And when others who bear Christ’s name offend me or even try to drive me off the road, it’s prime time for working at letting go/forgiving even as I have been mercifully treated by my Savior.
Often, people will associate Christians’ weaknesses with an ineffective God. And we weak, stumbling lambs of the Good Shepherd are exhibit A. Nothing could be further from the truth. Grace/undeserved love is a gift that continues to cover countless sins with the blood of Jesus. In response, we seek to live – and drive – in thankful, God-honoring ways.
The “drive like hell, Jesus has you covered” approach, though prevalent and bursting to display itself in each one of us, makes a mockery of God’s love. Fix your eyes on Jesus, pay attention to his Word, and enjoy each moment of grace as you seek to live a life of love in response to his great love.
“You were taught with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on
the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24)
Keep your eyes on the road. Keep your hands on the wheel. Try to stay close to the speed limit. And keep your heart’s focus on Jesus.
In Christ,
Pastor Stephen Luchterhand