Read Matthew 28:16-20

The American auto manufacturers, often referred to as The Big Three, are forecast to have an unprecedented socio-economic impact on North America, and perhaps the world, over the coming months and year.

Industry experts spent weeks lobbying either for or against a financial bailout of the auto industry. Arguments for a financial bailout were grounded on the principle that without it the result would include: higher unemployment, decreased tax revenue, more home foreclosures, increased mental health issues, escalated criminal activity, and compounded pension burdens.

Arguments for withholding aid offered a different perspective. This perspective suggested that a failing industry will continue to fail even with a financial bailout. Moreover, a private equity firm with significant holdings in two of the three manufacturers would be the greatest financial beneficiary of a bailout. Others challenged the economic viability of the UAW or the executive compensation packages and bonus allowances.

People are projecting their emotions on The Big Three with a level of intensity that mirrors the emotional responses commonly expressed in religious communities. Responses across the emotional spectrum, ranging from hope and trust to fear and anger, are being levied upon the American auto industry. In some ways, the auto industry has assumed an omnipotent persona. This persona has not been sought solely through the industry's own pursuit. The recent financial bailout of the American auto manufacturers has heightened this persona and has polarized people’s perspectives. Will the bailout provide the stimulus necessary to save? Will human intervention and our choices lead to even deeper despair? These rhetorical questions have theological overtones.

Our feverish dervish into the American auto industry and its broadening impact is an example of our insatiable desire to control life. Yet, God is in control ultimately. The Big Three transforming lives throughout the centuries is the Holy Trinity – not the manufacturers of cars! Our perspective is often short-sided, rather than eternal. When we invest our time, talents, and prayers with increased intensity on the sustainability of corporations, rather than on the provision of God, we first need to bailout our own spiritual depravity. God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – is capable of leading us out of any despair and offers salvation and hope beyond compare. During these challenging financial times, we need to be in close communion with our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. An economic recession does not need to precipitate a recession of our faith.

So, what actions may we pursue that will strengthen our faith, even amid these current financial woes?

Prayer: Holy One, we seek your wisdom and guidance. Many of us face growing economic uncertainty. The realities of the recession close in on our lives. We experience realities like job loss, deflated investment accounts, increased grocery prices, delayed retirement plans, and mounting debt. Lift us from the depth of self-pity and despair. Save us from overwhelming fear and anger. Offer us your wisdom. You alone are our shining light. We pray in the name of God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. (Based on For Our Country from the United Methodist Hymnal, page 429.)