Pastor Ken
The other day, as the sun started shining, and the weather warmed up, I took my car to the nearby gas station for a wash. In Minnesota, where we get snow in the winter, the roads are frequently salted and plowed. Driving around here would get the dirt and salt on the car. Regular car washes are essential. At this gas station, they use a machine that relies on high-pressure water jets, rather than brushes or rags, to clean the car’s exterior. While the car was covered in a thin layer of white detergent, memories of past car washes flooded my mind.
When I lived in the Bay Area of California for several years, I didn’t need to wash my car unless I traveled out of town. It didn’t rain at all in the summer months. Years later, I moved to Sioux Falls and was surprised to see the abundance of car wash centers in the area. Many had multiple bays together with teams of young men who would manually dry and vacuum the entire car, inside and out. I was wondering why car cleanliness seemed to be a priority for residents in Sioux Falls. It wasn’t long before I realized that the city is relatively small. Once you venture beyond the outskirts, you encounter unpaved farm roads. These dusty roads, combined with the prevalence of dead bugs sticking to cars during the summer, necessitated frequent car washes. In addition, a lot of people like outdoor activities. No wonder they need to wash their cars frequently.
Years ago, I used to pass by a local fire station. During quiet times, the firefighters often diligently washed the fire engines and tended to their equipment. At first, I thought to myself that being a firefighter seemed like an easy job when there were no emergencies to respond to. I marveled at how they had time to clean the vehicles. Later, I realized the crucial urgency at the scene of a fire. In those moments, every piece of equipment must be functioning for immediate use. The risk of damage from heavy smoke, water, debris, or falling objects is ever-present. Only after returning to the fire station do the firefighters have time to clean up and make repairs. Keeping the vehicles and equipment in top condition is an integral part of a firefighter’s duties.
For individuals with yards and a passion for gardening, proper maintenance of gardening tools is crucial. Scissors, hoes, saws, and other tools need to be cleaned at the end of each day to ensure their longevity. One of my neighbors exemplifies this principle by hosing down the lawn mower after each use and then wiping it dry. When I inquired about the machine’s age, he proudly stated, “Twelve years!” This resonates with the adage, “Take care of your tools, and they will take care of you.”
Indeed, numerous tools and machines in our daily lives require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Take kitchen knives as an example. A sharp knife is a safe knife, so investing time in sharpening it will make cutting tasks easier. Certain kitchenware must be dried promptly to prevent rusting. Equipment with filters, like vacuum cleaners, exhaust fans, central air furnaces, and dryers, can pose risks if their air ducts become clogged. Inadequate maintenance could lead to increased energy consumption, potential fires, or even gas poisoning. The overarching principle is to keep all machinery clean and in good working order. As owners and users, we bear the responsibility of maintaining these tools to keep them functioning optimally.
From cars to machines, tools, or even clothing accessories, a special thrill comes with acquiring something new. The pristine condition, shiny surfaces, and fresh scent all captivate our senses. By dedicating some time to cleaning and maintaining our belongings, we not only renew their appearance but also prolong their lifespan, bringing us a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
