Mostly What God Does: Reflections on Seeking and Finding His Love Everywhere

An anecdote about a challenging car trip with her children highlights the trials of keeping young kids entertained during long drives, especially in New York City’s unpredictable traffic. Guthrie recounts a story told by her mother during one such trip. The story, set in 1950s Kentucky, describes how Guthrie’s mother, then a 10-year-old, defied her father’s strict warnings and nearly drowned in the treacherous Ohio River. Despite the father’s cautioning, when she was rescued, he embraced her with open arms, showing no anger, only relief and love. This story serves as a metaphor for divine mercy, illustrating how God welcomes us back with open arms regardless of our transgressions.

Guthrie parallels this story with the biblical parable of the prodigal son. In the parable, a wealthy father forgives and welcomes back his wayward son who squandered his inheritance. The father runs to embrace his son “while he was still a long way off” (161), symbolizing God’s unconditional and proactive mercy. Guthrie contends that God’s mercy is not contingent on perfection or repentance; it is given freely and abundantly, meeting individuals more than halfway.