SCHEDULE MAINTENANCE

Search my heart oh God... Ps. 139:23,24

He waved me into the outside left lane. As he approached my door I pushed the window button and as the glass disappeared I greeted him - "Good morning, how are you today? I have an appointment for service." Within minutes papers were signed, initialed and I was embraced by the waiting process. I opened my sketch pad, started my Ipod and made myself comfortable.

I like my car - yet there is no automotive love affair here. I don't like cars in general. I mean I'm not fascinated by new styles, shapes, colors, speed or engine size. Of course there are vehicles that grab my artistic attention - sometimes for reason of their ugliness alone. I'm just not a car person, they are just a necessary evil of contemporary transportation.

I don't attempt to work on them at least not anymore - I tried a couple of times with results of pain, frustration and humility. I don't claim to know much about cars and that's okay with me, but due to this fact, scheduled examination of my iron steed is important. (quite honestly I don't do this that well either)

Wouldn't it be interesting if we received notice in the mail that our schedule spiritual maintenance was due? I mean beyond Sunday worship, small groups studies, etc. - those things to me are more operational - like fueling up, kicking the tires, washing it from time to time or checking the oil. What if twice a year the notice arrived and our lives were put up on the rack and our performance was evaluated - our commitment levels checked, spiritual air filter changed and new plugs charged with new energy replaced our old spark. But it doesn't happen that way.

A good mechanic or car enthusiast can feel the play in the wheel, or hear the subtle change of the engine hum. They notice the small things that send signals that deeper examination is needed. God calls us to the same type of technique - He even grants us a supernatural passenger that helps us hear or see the signals when we often find excuses. We have a daily
mechanic, who calls us to regular maintenance - we're invited to have our vehicle available - He'll identify our troubles and help with repairs.

I suppose if we are honest, maintenance is scheduled for each day. We need to practice looking under the hood before each day's journey begins.