A few days ago I visited our local department of motor vehicles office. A new system required making an online appointment, and when I showed up for my scheduled time slot I thought I stepped through the wrong door. No more chaos. Two people waited quietly as I checked in. Within a few minutes I sat at the counter and chatted with a friendly clerk. The process went smoothly and I have to say, made for a pleasant experience (except for writing a big check for the state and county fees).

The next day I dropped off my Jeep for a repair. Some problem with the emissions system, which means in our part of Colorado the vehicle would not pass an emissions test, which means I would not be able to license the vehicle at the now pleasant DMV. The circle of life. After paying another hefty sum I drove off. Car chores finished for awhile.

My schedule fills with tasks, maintenance issues (one of my gutters is clogged), and things that just have to get done. How do I find the Lord in my to-do list? Where is God in the mundane? Many places in the Scriptures remind us of God’s ongoing presence. I like this passage from Hebrews:

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”

The Lord seems to be keeping me free from money as I spend lavishly on vehicle fees and service. But much more hopeful is the reminder that the Lord is my helper and never gets bored or wanders off.

Where is the Lord in the midst of monotonous and tiresome activities? Right next to me, whether at the DMV, repair shop or anywhere in between. It’s an amazing reality—God stays with me wherever I go.

Hebrews 13:5-6

Photo by Edwin Chen