BLOG: The day Jesus rode shotgun in my car
Written by Kathleen Saelens, Salvation Army housing case manager in Grand Rapids, Minn.
I work as a case manager for The Salvation Army’s “Rapid Rehousing Program” in Grand Rapids, Minn. My job is to help homeless people find housing in six surrounding counties.
Covering such a large service area in northern Minnesota gives me a lot of drive time to think. One day, as I was driving two hours north to International Falls, the George Harrison song “My Sweet Lord” began to play on the radio. Harrison sings: “I really want to be with you. Really want to see you, Lord. But it takes so long, my Lord.”
After hearing those lyrics, I thought, Well, I believe in Jesus, so why not envision him sitting right next to me, riding shotgun?
I began to wonder what Jesus looks like. What is the color and length of his hair? Does he still wear that long robe and sandals? What color are his eyes? What would his eyes say to me?
I decided that Jesus has hair that is shoulder-length, dark brown and wavy, and his eyes are green. His eyes convey the most loving, peaceful look – a look that I have seen from only one other human. That person is a man who rang the bell this past Christmas. Despite living with mental health issues, this man was still able to volunteer, and he loved it. When I arrived at his red kettle, I remember being so drawn into his green eyes and soft smile. He resonated kindness and peacefulness. I felt moved by his presence, like I had witnessed a glimpse of God.
As I continued to drive, I began to wonder what I would ask Jesus if He were in the car with me. Then, knowing He could hear me even if I couldn’t see Him, I decided to have a conversation with Him. (After all, there was no one else in the car to look at me as if I were half-crazy!)
After my very first question, I realized Jesus has a sense of humor, because His response was, “It’s all in the Book,” meaning the Bible. I suddenly realized that the answer to any question I was about to ask could be found in the Bible. I felt embarrassed, I must say. Jesus only smiled, accepting of my limitations.
I then began to think about how Jesus created all of our diverse cultures, their histories, and their languages. Even in northern Minnesota, I witness them and learn from them. Working for the homeless in our state has brought me great empathy, patience and the continued lesson of humility. It is truly “But for the Grace of God go I.”
On your next road trip, try to envision Jesus sitting right next to you, riding shotgun, loving you, and protecting you.
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