Monday, September 17, 2012

a service with a smile

They were called service stations because at one time that was what you received-service. You would pull into the service drive, your arrival being announced by the bell from driving over the black air hose. Then you would be greeted by someone who asked what did you need, and while pumping your gas, would check the oil, check your tires, and top off the fluids. All included in the price per gallon, and it didn't matter who you were or what you drove, you got the same great service. No matter the weather, even in the rain. You never left the comfort of your car, or had to miss the end of your favorite song. And to top it all off, many stations gave away Green Stamps with your purchase, plus whatever the oil company was using as a promotional tool. It could be anything from glasses, to towels, to extra stamps-all part of the service.
And we learned early from our dads which gas was best. No need for Sunoco 260 in a Rambler, when Good Gulf would do. Or to stay away from Esso, the rumor was it left green deposits in the carburetor. And even when we went up to buy gas for the mower, the attendant would come out for the 25 cents worth the can would hold. Even hearing the bell ring would have them respond, even if it was just us getting air for the Schwinn, Rollfast, or JC Higgins we rode. It was all about the service, and the station owners knew us, and our parents. And even on our motorcycles, when we only took 75 cents to fill up, we got the same great service. With a show of respect, them handing us the hose after making sure it wouldn't drip-no real attendant, or real biker ever let anyone else fill their own ride. Sadly today these are memories.
We don't call them service stations anymore. They are called gas stations, for no service is provided. No bells, no greeting, checking oil or the washing of windows. No free gifts, Green Stamps are no part of American folklore, and the only one greeting you is usually begging for money. While all business is done either by the cashier behind a bulletproof glass cubicle, or you use you credit card at the pump. Where before it was an event, now it is to be endured. Where sometimes before the attendant would go over your $2 request by 15 cents-almost a gallon extra, today the last few drops of prepaid fuel take as long as the first 10 gallons. Service administered accurately, with courtesy being exhibited by the machine asking you if you want a receipt. Another part of what is referred to as progress, and another part of people meeting face to face eliminated.
Churches still have services, and they are referred to as a service rightly so. You get greeted, get to worship, visit, get taught, and then a chance to be prayed for individually if needed. In a loving caring environment, for most churches. And afterwards fellowship with others-making it an experience you look forward to, and one that is rewarding. Time spent with God, and His people.
Last night we had our annual Feast of Trumpets celebration at Maranatha Chapel. From the schofars being blown, to the singing, the dancing, and all being started with a free meal for over 1700 people, it was a true time of celebration. A time of joy in the Lord, and a time to fellowship. Helping me to redefine fellowship. For true fellowship, koininea, the Greek word, means fellowship with God, not the gossip that precedes or follows church. It is about God, and spending time with Him, sharing with others. A true time where you are blessed-and a time when all yours needs in Christ Jesus are met. In Hebrew the celebration is related to the rapture of the church-think of it as a dress rehearsal for heaven, for Jesus will call us home with the sound of a trumpet.
And for those left behind, no service. No joy, and the absence of God's people. No true fellowship, those left will be left alone to serve themselves, choosing not to serve a loving God. And He honors their choice by not taking them to heaven-they didn't want Him here, so He leaves them behind, rather than burden them with His presence.
Some day true believers will here the trumpet, just like the attendant heard the bell, and we will be called home. A service like no other, with the ultimate free gift, Jesus is our presence. Our oil, the Holy spirit will be overflowing, our view clear as a freshly washed windshield, and all our needs will be met. God still meets us today at the pump if you will-He is present and asking what you need, and wants to supply it. He is at the door waiting-what is your answer? If your view of God sees Him behind bulletproof glass, or as a machine waiting to take your card, you don't know Him. Pull up to Him today-you don't need to ask for full service-that is all He provides. Let Him into your life, and celebrate His love. Fellowship with other true believers, and enjoy all the free benefits. He has already provided the reasons to serve Him, let Him serve you also.
Now will that be regular or premium? If you have to ask, you don't know the premium God I do. Fill up with Jesus today, which by the way just may be a rehearsal for heaven. And like any wedding, the rehearsal dinner is fun, the food abundant, and the fellowship rich.
I miss the old time service stations-don't miss the eternal God. Trust Him today. Where all your needs are met. Now that's service with a smile.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com