How to prevent water infiltration around steel lintel above garage?

Question:I noted a rotting 2x8 above our 2car garage door the other day, and it alerted me to a gap between the brick veneer above, the lintel itself, and the 2x8 below. The lintel is rusty - I think just on the outside, but can't tell until I remove the rotting wood.

I will replace the 2x8 with good pressure treated lumber, but am left wondering how best to address those gaps. And should those gaps be there? I don't see how the lintel is doing its job when it doesn't even touch the brick above.

Answers:
Chulk.