My son called me a few days after we returned from vacation. “Dad, my car is about to die and I’m sick of this thing anyway.” “It’s time for me to look for something else.” And right then I knew what I wanted to do. “Hold on, Michael.” I replied. “I might give you the car I have now.”
Michael is doing very well and is perfectly capable of getting a car on his own. That wasn’t the point. This was an opportunity for me to get a car I wanted, and if he was willing to take the car I have been driving, that sealed the deal. “Sure dad, I’ll take it.” And so the search was on…
Call me crazy, but I have disavowed car payments. I’m looking for a used car I can buy out right. I typically look for the best used car (of any model) I can find at the cheapest price. But not this time… Call me crazy again, but I have always liked the Honda Element – the short boxy mini SUV’s that are no longer made. You might think they are ugly or stupid. I don’t care. I’ve always wanted one, and now I have one — low miles at a great price!
This might turn out to be a lemon or a terrible car and a bad investment. That’s the risk with used cars. Today I think this thing is cool, and that is enough! Today I am basking in the glow of a long-held wish now fulfilled.
All this has me thinking about little dreams — the little dreams, wishes and desires we all hold. There is nothing wrong with them! The problem comes when we let our hopes and plans (small and large) get in the way of the bigger dream God has for each of us.
I don’t think God cares much whether I got the Element, another sedan, or something else. It’s all a matter of the heart and the will. It concerns God greatly whether I pursue my own dreams or his desire for me. And this I find to be a daily struggle. I think you might be able to relate!
My contentment with this car will last only a few days. After that, it will be transportation, and whether it is good, reliable transportation remains to be seen! Deep in my heart I know that all my little dreams will not fulfill. Deeper still in my heart I know even the big dreams I hold are small in God’s eyes.
True contentment comes in recognizing that God knows my heart and will give me what is best for me. It might not be everything I desire or think I want. My new old car is a small issue, but for the record, I’m thrilled I have it! What matters is bringing my wants and dreams before God, and aligning my own will with his will for me. This is our daily struggle. The good news is God is present with us to help us along the way.
See you Sunday!
-Bill
