The excerpt above reflects the idea that Tom's faith is being tested.
Focus on the part of the quote, " - that it was vain to serve God, that God had forgotten him." Tom is questioning his faith, saying that his God had forgotten him, that it was vain to serve his God, and referencing his soul bitter thoughts.
The store is a happy place for her and wants to give that impression to the reader. What impression does the author give of the store in "The Corner Store"? that he loves children and always remembers their weight and seemed to know exactly what they wanted.
You would have to register the vehicle within 10 days of acquiring it :)
