s t u c k

The car got stuck right in front of my house. It was snowing quite a bit, and the roads weren’t plowed. Normally, I’d run outside and help. But I didn’t. I didn't want to. We were eating dinner, and the College Football championship game was about to start. When I peeked out the window, I noticed it was a young man (probably about 25 or so). He’ll figure it out, I told myself. 

In between bites Kate kept prodding me. 

 

“Are you sure you don’t want to go out and help?”

“Not this time,” I said. (See, this happens about every other storm.) “He’s young and able. He’ll get out.” 

 

Well... He didn’t get out. 

 

Eventually, cars tried getting around him and they got stuck too. When the plow finally came it cleared the road but ended up leaving that first car in even worst shape – stuck and now surrounded by a curb of snow. Kate gently pushed me out the door. 

 

When I got to the car, my neighbor was already on the scene pushing the vehicle and shoveling. The driver was in a panic. I told him not to worry. This happens ALL the time, I said. We’ll get you out. He had tears in his eyes, his hands were shaking. Trembling, he pointed to a baby in a car seat in the backseat. At that moment I felt like a fool for not rushing to help right away. I regretted being so self-centered and presumptuous. I convinced myself he was fine. He wasn’t. 

 

It only took about 10 minutes to get this kid on his way. But once he got going, he put his foot on the brakes. My neighbor shouted, “What are you doing?!” Out the window the young man replied, “I want to say thanks.” My neighbor shouted even louder, “Thank us by getting home!” 


Thank us by getting home... 

 

For the rest of the evening, I sat in prayerful meditation (while the boring football game played in the background). I wondered…

 

Where else have I failed to help? 

Where else have I been dragging my feet? 

What presumptions am I putting on others? 

 

But also… 

 

When have I been bailed out of perilous situations? (literally and metaphorically) 

And, am I living a life that reflects my gratitude? 

 

In the waters of baptism our God promises ultimate redemption. We are a saved people. We could stop our car halfway up the hill to say thanks to God, but I don’t think God wants that (and I’m confident God doesn’t need it). Rather, I think God just wants to see us ALL get home. So, note to self and others… if someone is stuck in the road. Help them. 

 

In the Way, 

PSDH 

 

 

 

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