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
