Car problems...

We have finished with some car problems.

For the past three weeks, both of our cars had been in the shop. We are finally back to full strength, and it feels good. While both were expensive repairs, we opted not to fix the van. All together, while trying to find parts and get the best prices for repairs, and then ultimately replacing the van, we were without for three weeks.

This can be pretty difficult on a Pastor. A rather big part of the work entails seeing people, including some in hospitals and nursing homes. A car is a necessity in this day and age.

But we got by, thanks to some good friends that came to the rescue. Over the past three weeks, we were able to borrow four cars from people who love the Lord and wanted to reach out and show that love to Sandy and I. In fact a couple of others had offered, and we are very grateful.

One couple who loaned us a van for two weeks shared the concept of the Indian giver. We think of that as a bad thing. Someone who borrows something, than ask for it back. But in reality, Indians had a form of common ownership of everything. If I have something you need, I give it. When I need it back, you give it back. It doesn't really belong to either of us. It's available to anyone who needs it. I needed a car, they had two, so they shared.

In the early church, we see something that looks similar. "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need." (Acts 2:44-45)

Do you have something a neighbor needs? Do you need something a neighbor might be able to help with? Why not get together and meet each others needs? When it works, both benefit. I know we sure did...