My New Car

When I graduated with my bachelor of social work, I desperately needed a job. I was a single parent with student loans. I lived in Montréal, Québec, Canada, and just before my graduation, human resources representatives from the Government of Alberta conducted interviews on campus. I figured I had nothing to lose, so I applied.

Shortly after being interviewed I was offered a frontline social work position in Edmonton, Alberta. One of the conditions of employment was that I had a vehicle. I did not own a car, nor did I know how to drive, but I thought that would be an easy fix.

The driving school at the end of my block made it convenient to sign up for lessons. I wanted to learn to drive a stick shift, but time was against me.

I completed the required lessons and prepared for the road test. When my appointment was changed from the morning to the afternoon, it gave me time to practice. One of my younger brothers, Wesley, took me out in the morning and had me do all sorts of maneuvers until it was time to go for the test. To my surprise I passed after the first try. Wesley was not so confident in my newfound driving abilities, so he declined my offer to drive home. Now that I had my permit, I just needed a car. Wesley took me to a Ford dealership to look around. When the salesman asked what we were looking for, my brother did not give me a chance to speak. He explained that I needed something small, inexpensive, with great miles per gallon. We were shown a new Ford Escort, a two-door hatchback. I wanted four doors, so I protested a bit. Wesley quickly reminded me that as the driver, I had a door, and I did not need to worry about passengers. He sold me on the idea, and we proceeded to purchase the car.

We went into the office to do the paperwork, and the salesman inquired how much money I intended to put down. “Nothing,” I answered and quickly explained that I was relocating to Alberta as I had a job with the government there.

The salesman contacted my employer and confirmed my position and my salary. He handed me the keys, and off we drove. Isaiah 55:1 says, “You who have no money come, buy. . . . Without money and without cost” (NASB).

We can trust God to supply all our needs!

Sharon Long