Time for a Check-Up!

I recently took my trusty SUV to the dealership. We've been together since 2021, and after nearly 50,000 miles, she's still running beautifully.

Since the manufacturer's warranty had expired, I called to ask about an extended warranty.

The service advisor said, "We'd be happy to help -- but first, we'll need to perform a 60-point inspection."

Goodness! I suddenly felt like a nervous grandmother waiting outside the delivery room!

60 points? Would she pass? Were there hidden problems lurking under the hood?

About 45-minutes later, my phone buzzed. The technician had sent me a video showing every part of the inspection. Brakes? Great. Tires? Great. Engine? Great. Fluids? Great. No leaks. Great.

The verdict? My sweet ride passed with flying colors!
I almost wanted to hug my car.

Then a little thought quietly rolled into my mind.
"Donna -- YOUR annual check-up is coming soon."
Oh dear!

I sure would like to pass my inspection as perfectly as my car did! I've got a feeling they'll find a few squeaky joints -- a knee that occasionally reminds me it's no longer thirty -- and let's not even discuss those middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom!

Thankfully, God isn't looking for perfect bodies -- He's looking for faithful hearts.

King David prayed, "Search me, O God, and know my heart -- see if there is any offensive way in me." (Psalm 139:23-24)

Now that's the inspection that matters most.
While doctors check our hearts, lungs, and blood pressure, God lovingly examines our attitudes, our motives, our kindness, our forgiveness, and our faith.

His diagnosis is always accurate.
His grace is always sufficient.
And unlike an automobile warranty, God's love never expires.

So yes, I'll keep my doctor's appointment.
But every day, I also want to invite the Great Physician to perform His own heart check on me.

The wonderful news is that our Great Physician never says, 'There's nothing more I can do.' His grace still heals, His mercy still restores, and His love still makes all things new.