God the Mechanic

By David Williamson.

My cousin recently celebrated his 100^th birthday. For years, Bud worked as an auto mechanic, first a private, retail car dealer and then in maintenance work for the Minneapolis Police Department. He was the family “go to” guy for any problems or questions related to cars.  I fondly remember riding in a “rumble seat” (Google it) on the back of his coupe.

All the years I have known him, Bud has been a very gentle and kind man. But how else can the work of an auto mechanic reflect God’s purposes?

The O-Net database’s information on job qualifications, and some further reflection, reveal just how much an auto mechanic needs to know. The mechanic needs to understand not only the problem being presented and the workings of the car but also the expectations of the owner. Listening to the needs and desires of others, whether the customer or the shop manager, is important.

That made me think of God as something of a “human mechanic,” working to maintain and repair us as “vehicles” of his grace. He listens to us, but he also knows how we work better than we do. He determines what we need, but also creates a trusting atmosphere where I feel safe disclosing to him my needs as I see them.

Both with God and with my auto mechanic, I can remember times when I was a bit embarrassed to state my needs. Where I lacked understanding. Where I felt helpless. The real problem may not have been on the surface, visible at a glance. I need – usually urgently – someone who will understand my need, understand the working of the vehicle, and understand the manufacturer’s purpose for its design and its processes.

The auto mechanic must listen well and demonstrate genuine care with each person, for each person is important – as with God. And seemingly small parts or services can make a major difference to performance – as with God.

The auto mechanic must appreciate each part independently and also understand how each part contributes to the functioning of the whole. They must also understand the connections and relationships between individual customers’ needs and expectations and those of the manufacturer, as well as those of the garage or shop. Mutual trust and skills for navigating interdependence are important for this process.

And, of course, at the end of the process comes gratitude.