Nate was not mechanical and couldn’t fix cars, but in every other respect, he took care of our vehicles. He did the insurance research and payment, had the oil changed on time, made sure the proof of insurance was in each glove compartment, bought new tires, had maintenance check-ups, put the city decal and license plate sticker on each one, became best friends with the man at the body shop and had a strong relationship with the mechanic who kept our cars in working order.
Now that Nate is gone, some of that car-stuff is drifting my way, although Nelson has been intercepting much of it. Today I spent time on the phone developing a bond with Geico Insurance, trying not to sound stupid with my questions. When previous phone conversations are followed by contrary paperwork in the mailbox, its time to get close and personal. I chalked it up to another example of what my widow warriors refer to as the “endless paperwork of widowhood”. But even I know its important to get papers in order for the season of high-risk winter driving.
I grew up in Chicago where we had plenty of snow and ice, but living now on the east side of Lake Michigan, I’m in the path of what weathermen call “lake-effect snow.” This adds new depth (and density) to the word “blizzard.”
My game of slip-‘n-slide with an old minivan after our first snowfall (Dec. 7 blog) convinced me I should begin hunting for a four-wheel drive vehicle. Taking my own poll as our neighbors have driven by, I’ve seen that nine out of ten drivers have chosen crossovers or SUVs. With hilly dunes beneath our asphalt, which is beneath our snow, that makes good sense. In this neighborhood, slippery roads can cause even a quick trip to the post office to be put on hold.
Nelson and I concocted a plan to sell both Nate’s car and mine with the hope of purchasing a small, used 4WD vehicle. Nate’s car sold on Craig’s list in one hour. My van was more of a challenge, its glowing “check engine” light having been on for 4000 miles. Nelson and I began looking at 4×4’s, but everything was too pricey, so I decided to slide through the rest of winter in my van, hoping to buy something ahead of next winter.
But when I tried to get out of the neighborhood, I got stuck on the exit road with its ever-so-slight incline and a stop sign at the top. Even backing up for a running start didn’t work. Heading back to the house on the least hilly streets, I felt like Ma Ingalls. Just like her, I’d probably have to stockpile errands for the first thaw.
Little did I know that God-the-husband was about to solve the problem through my caring brother-in-law Bervin, who is always willing (eager!) to be used by the Lord. On Saturday he drove into our driveway behind the wheel of a big, black Dodge Durango saying, “How ‘bout we go on a test drive?” He and Mary were offering their SUV.
Climbing up into the driver’s seat, I felt ready to conquer any dune! With no effort at all we backed over mounds of snow left by plows and headed for the entrance road, which was a bunny hill to this powerful machine. I felt surrounded in safety. No more slip-‘n-slide games for this girl! “You can use it indefinitely,” Bervin said, “because I won’t need it through the winter.”
Scripture says we’re not to trust in horses or chariots to win our battles, but looking out the front window at my “new” Durango, I’ve got a lot of faith in that chariot. There isn’t much doubt it’ll conquer every snow-challenge winter spits out.
The real security, though, beneath those monster-size tires (Could they be three feet wide?!) is a brother-in-law and sister who are looking out for me, putting my needs ahead of their own. As Scripture says, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4) This is very difficult to do, but on Saturday, it got done.
“May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” (Psalm 20:1,4,7)
God is so good and answers in the most unexpected ways. To do that, someone else has to be listening to His still small voice. Thankful for your answered prayer and God’s provision.
I love the Ma Ingalls reference! It made me laugh. But even more, I love how God provided so tangibly for you. Enjoy your chariot.
Mary and Berv are among the most generous people I have ever known! It’s so exciting that God used them to provide such an important need for you!
The verses that you tie into your blog each day are always so perfect. And I’m wondering Ma, did you sell your mini van to Mr. Olsen?
Mary and Berv are my neighbors in Michigan and i know they read your blog. Now i know where i can get my next car. Please feel free to use my snow filled driveway to park your extra vehicles as i will not be back north until later in March. Yes you are very kind indeed to your sister Margaret. Enjoy your new chariot!
I have been the recipient of Bervin/Mary generosity on more than one occasion and the beneficiary of that Dodge Durango as well. It’s like God with flesh on. Bless you and yours; may the rewards in Heaven be abundant and overflowing.
Such generosity is rare in our selfish world, you are truly blessed having Mary as a sister and Berv as brother – in law. We have all experienced it while visiting them. Fantastic people all of you. Love you.
Wow- the way God is showing up in your life is both faith building and faith challenging. What wonderful family and friends you have who have been God with flesh on as Patti wrote above.
“Lord, You have said that the generous will be prosperous- prosper Bervin and Mary, give back to them good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, and pouring into their lap (Luke 6:38). Thank You for providing for Margaret and for building her trust that You will be her husband. Amen.”
I think today was the first time I listened to the radio and actually paid attention to the term “lake-effect snow.” Now I know what it means for someone in your neck of the woods. Don’t be out there cutting cookies now, Ma Ingalls. 🙂 I was hoping for one of those rare school is off snow days as it sounds like it’s coming down good today… no sympathy, I know, from those with real jobs!
Terry
I love hearing stories of God’s faithfulness. Thank you.
Tears fill my eyes as I watch the Lord provide for your every need. May God richly bless your sister and husband for their generosity.
God is using this blog to strengthen our faith. He is showing His faithfulness and increasing my reslove to be faithful for He is faithful. What a testimony to all of us. Hallelujia!
Seeing the picture of the black Dodge Durango, I think you should wear a trench coat and sunglasses when you drive it. As you exit the car, be sure you are seen speaking quietly into your wristwatch. Everyone will think you are with the CIA.
That’s hilarious, Martye. Kind of a Chicago style Ma Ingalls.
I, too, got a chuckle at the Ma & Pa Ingalls comment. It brought back sweet memories when my cousin would play Little House on the Prarie for hours in the mountains. But more important is the blessing you received via the black chariot! After some pangs of jealousy because I’m unable to provide those kinds of things for others I was once again reminded that God blesses us with our own gifts and graces that big or small are of His own design and plan. Our part is obedience. Let me also add to so many other comments how much I have been blessed by you, your faith, your courage and willingless to share and bless others with your life. I’m learning so much about myself by learning about you. Thank you, and (to keep up the theme) God Bless You.
This was so thought provoking to me…since every reference I could think of to do with chariots has to do with war. (No one drove a chariot to “go into town” or to show off a new bonnet!) And you are in such a battle every day, but definitely not alone. God your husband is your shield and your defender, and He WILL get you over those mounds of snow and ice, and keep you warm in the process! I can only imagine the joy you will have all winter, possibly downright glee….(I’m smiling just thinking about it!) feeling each 3 foot tire “catch”, giving you sure footing anf a way to get those errands done long before the first thaw! You go, Ma!
I’m catching up on your blogs and was another person who loved the Little House reference! I’m glad you can enjoy the durango-“Tonio” in its GBN days. :)You’ll learn to love it with all its flaws. Haha!