The season is over for most of us. There are a few special events to run but for the most part our champions have been crowned. How did this season work out for you? Did you take time to enjoy all you have been blessed with? Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
One of the great things in racing is that we get to race. Not everyone gets a chance to do what they have a passion for. There are many that don’t have the opportunities we have been blessed with. Have you ever stopped and thanked God for all he has provided?
At this time of year the thought that comes to mind is how thankful we need to be for what we have been blessed with. We need only to look around and see others who do not have the opportunities to do what we do.
Reflecting on the time we spent at Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park for the Sunoco World Series of Racing. The event, like many we serve, was full of many opportunities to touch the lives beyond the track. Allow me to share some of the “behind the scenes” happenings. One special opportunity was that we were able to get the teams and officials together to encourage a special friend of the Whelen Modified Tour as he recovers and deals with some medical challenges.
We also had a member of the modified community facing a difficult diagnosis without much hope on the horizon. We were able to come alongside, provide encouragement and lift them up in prayer.
We have been involved for some time with helping a member of the racing community secure new transportation. We were able to deliver the news that the resources have been secured to make the final payment. The van would be delivered debt free to him. We always need to remember that no matter how difficult things seem for us there are others who are dealing with more challenging days.
In addition to what is going on behind the scenes there are things happening right in front of our eyes. As many know the leadership at Thompson is in transition. This was the final weekend that many who make up the team at Thompson would be together. As you can imagine the challenge of pulling together the Sunoco World Series but add to that the weight of saying goodbye adds to the challenge. We were able to be there in a supporting and encouraging role to the staff.
As I looked over the line of Track Safety Workers assembled on the front stretch before the invocation each day my heart went out to them. As they stood proud, ready to serve there was someone missing. Earlier this year one of their own was taken home. Many of them shared how much his presence was missing. Even those who stand by to protect us need support and encouragement. We were able to stand alongside and hold them up.
We also get to do some cool stuff for others. In addition to the race weekend this was a significant weekend for several race families; McDermott, Gagner, Posocco and Palko. On Friday night I had the honor of officiating the wedding for Cam and Lauren, now Mr. and Mrs. McDermott. Following that up on Sunday night I officiated the union of Ryan and Kaitlyn, now Mr. and Mrs. Posocco. It is always a wonderful time to celebrate new beginnings and being a part of the milestones in the lives of those we serve in the racing community.
Speaking of milestones Friday, October 12 marked a significant day for Chace Bennett. If you recall three years ago we joined the “Race for Chace” to encourage Chace as he faced treatment for Leukemia. Chace is the son of Michael and Lindsey Bennett; Michael a Late-Model Champion at Stafford Motor Speedway. We have stood beside Michael and Lindsey along their journey with Chase. He is my Superhero! On Friday October 12, 2018 he had his last treatment. What an awesome milestone to celebrate.
These are just some snapshots of what our team was able to be a part of over World Series Weekend. There were many others and each day in each of our lives there are significant events that might seem to go unnoticed. One of the things that we cannot let escape our attention is that we are truly blessed to be able to go out and race. The freedom to do what we enjoy doing. I remind you not to take it for granted, give something back.
As Christians we have been blessed with a Lord and Savior. We are reminded of the love that God has for us and the provision he made for our salvation. Paul reminds us how we should live our lives.
Ephesians 5:1-2; Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
We should live a life of love, but what does that mean? It means we should have compassion in our hearts for those who are less fortunate. We should be kind and forgiving. We should be willing to make some sacrifices to help others out. We need to be willing to serve. To borrow from my wedding ceremony;
Ephesians 13:4-8a; niv; Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
Let me encourage you to take this time to reflect on all that you have been blessed with. If you need to be reminded, take some time and serve those who are less fortunate. Make a sacrifice this harvest season and you will enjoy it more than you ever have before. Show others the love that God showed to you. Remember; but for the grace of God there go I.
Until next time, remember God loves you and Jesus is Lord over Auto Racing! God Bless. Remember, that your prayerful support helps us continue this ministry. Thank You.
