Sleeper Faith

 January 4, 2023

Nearly fifty years ago, I was visiting my brother in law who at the time was living outside of Rochester, NY. He was somewhat of a gearhead, and had a friend with a “sleeper” 1958 Corvette. “How’d you like to go for a ride?” the my brother in law asked. “I’m sure he’d be happy to take you for a spin.” (For the uninitiated, a “sleeper” car is one on which the owner spent no money on frills like new paint or upolstery. Every cent went into the motor). 

Being somewhat of a gullible chump at the time, I said, “Sure,” and hopped in. At the time, my brother in law was living in a trailer court that only had a gravel driveway. His friend got behind the wheel, turned the ignition, hit the gas and popped the clutch. As my head jerked back, we barreled out of the driveway, literally took the corner on two wheels, and were going 120 mph before I knew what was happening. I’ve watched drag races, and have to believe we could have won that day.

Reading the first five chapters of Mark’s Gospel takes me back to that long-ago day. It’s like being climbing into the seat of a literary sleeper Corvette, revving the engine and popping the clutch. It’s a whirlwind, hang-onto-your-hat ride with Jesus at the wheel, laughing and saying, “You think THAT’s crazy; watch this!” He goes from miracle to miracle, healing, calling men to follow him, casting out demons, teaching, and all but challenging the religious leaders to a spiritual showdown. And all along, he’s telling people to stop being afraid and to believe the Good News. 

That command from Jesus is just as important today as it was back then. There was plenty to fear then, and there is plenty to fear now. He wouldn’t tell us to not fear if there weren’t legitimate things to be afraid of. But his word is true, and it takes the form of a command. He isn’t suggesting that we not fear; he commands it. He is able to command it because he is able to control it, if we believe. That’s the key: If I don’t believe God is in control in this crazy “sleeper Corvette” world, fear is the only other option. Jesus is behind the wheel; if you look close, you can see the twinkle in his eye as he stomps on the gas, takes the corner on two wheels, and glances your way to see you wide-eyed and white-knuckled, holding on for dear life. One thing Mark assures us—life with Jesus will never be dull.