Faith in the Fast Lane

Motorsports Ministries

2011-03-21T20:47:00.003-04:00

This past weekend I attended the 12 Hours of Sebring in Sebring, Florida. This historic race pitted the best sportscar in the world. What a great time I had. But the highlight of the weekend was meeting some wonderful people who are involved in motorsports.

I attended the chapel service of Motorsports Ministries on Friday morning. Motorsports Ministries is "an organization conceived, developed and operated to provide for the spiritual and emotional needs of the people involved in professional and amateur automobile racing.

At the chapel service, I met Richard Anderson who is the executive director of MM. He shared from his heart about God's comfort in his life during this past few months as he has faced cancer. Rich is still facing surgery coming up in April. His message rang true because he is experiencing God's blessing day by day right now.

Also pictured above is Chris. Chris and I met at the service and she quickly became my guide and help to understanding the world of IMSA, International Motor Sports Association.

I'm sure God lead me to these people to open the world of American Le Mans Series racing to me.

Motorsports Ministries is working hard to be a beacon of help and support for the motorsports family.

I hope to meet Rich and Chris again and continue my relationship with Motorsports Ministries.

In the Blink of an Eye

2011-02-06T07:41:00.003-05:00

'In the Blink of an Eye' is Michael Waltrip's recently released autobiographical book. I starting reading it two days ago and couldn't put it down until I finished it last night. The story moves quickly from his early years in Owensboro, Kentucky to his eventual successes in NASCAR's highest levels. You will want to read this before the 2011 Daytona 500 where Waltrip will once again race in the NAPA #15 on the 10th anniversary of the death of Dale Earnhardt in that race.

This is more than a recounting of the events in Waltrip's life. In the Blink of an Eye is the story of faith in his life. Waltrip doesn't tell us details of how faith came to him or what led to his strong faith. But we can see how his faith helped him face the difficulties in his life including the death of his father, his long winless years in NASCAR, the death of his mentor, Dale Earnhardt, and the break-up of his marriage.

Michael Waltrip and his brother Darrell are both big names in NASCAR. However, we have had very little insight into their complicated relationship. Waltrip makes us read between the lines to see exactly how their brother-brother relationship has developed.

In the Blink of an Eye is almost as much about Dale Earnhardt as it is about Waltrip. Earnhardt was both a friend and a hero to Waltrip. Waltrip was just beginning to fulfill his lifelong dream of driving for Earnhardt's racing team when Earnhardt was killed.

Waltrip carries guilt from many of the events in his life including the death of Earnhardt. He uses his faith to process these events and come to grips with the events.

I recommend this enjoyable book. It will give you insight into the world of NASCAR as well as the Waltrip family. Michael's humor is evident throughout the story and you will feel like you are listening to him talk on Inside NASCAR.

Racing in Canada

2010-08-29T14:30:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Canada. NASCAR fans are not used to hearing the opening ceremonies offered in French. The province of Quebec, where the race is today, is the only part of Canada that is not bi-lingual. French is the only official language of that province. English is not found on signs or spoken in public locations.

I lived in Canada for 2 years during the 80's. Each time my children heard the Canadian National Anthem, my son thought the final line was

"We stand on guard for thieves."

The Canadian National Anthem is beautiful and actually ends "We stand on guard for thee!"

God & NASCAR

2010-08-28T14:23:00.002-04:00

NASCAR begins every event with their "opening ceremonies". This included a color guard to display the flag, an invocation which is an opening prayer and the national anthem. What other sport opens with prayer? None that I know of on the national level.

But this isn't the only time in NASCAR you will see faith in action. I came across an article called

God and NASCAR. Even though it was written two years ago, you may still find it interesting to read about how Christianity is lived out at a race track.

What Does Respect Mean for America

2010-08-28T14:03:00.003-04:00

I wrote my column for InsiderRacingNews.com on respect this week. I titled it an Open Letter to Tony Stewart. My personal feeling is that good manners is a form of respect including whatever we do.

Lack of respect is shown by not treating everyone like we would like to be treated. My daughter teaches high school biology. In her classroom there are two rules. 1)Be nice 2)Do your best.

I think all of life would be better if all of us would 'just be nice'.

Is Tony Stewart the only NASCAR driver to not show respect to his fans and the media. Of course not. But Tony Stewart is right out there with his feelings and it becomes evident how he feels.

This extends to the Internet. Just read comments on any news story, twitter or blogs. People can be very disrespectful to anyone who disagrees with them.

Michael Waltrip tweeted recently: Need to learn to debate topics without resorting to insults. It shows a complete lack of intelligence. The unfollow button is easy to find.

I couldn't agree more!

Greg Biffle's Will to Win

2010-08-02T08:26:00.003-04:00

Sunday's win by Greg Biffle at Pocono broke a 64 race winless streak for him. Biffle met the press after the race and spoke of his will to win. It was an emotional win for Biffle. His owner, Jack Roush, remains in Mayo hospital following a plane crash this week. The emotion of this past week certainly must have contributed to this will to win.

Biffle spoke of his will to win in a post-race press conference.

"I give 110% all the time, I never give up. No matter how grim the outcome can be, I'll still be digging no matter what. That's what I did today. I just kept after it in the racecar, took every advantage that I could get.

Later in the day, the car just really started going. These guys wanted me to slow down at the end. That's tough. I've been in that situation. Used to be in it quite a bit, being out front, five-second lead, slow down, take care of the car, take care of the fuel, take care of the engine, just back it down a little bit. That's hard to do inside the car."

So it was partly the great car and partly the will to win that pushed Biffle to Victory Lane. All I know is that it made for a great race.

Home on Her Knees

2010-04-18T15:19:00.004-04:00

Racing for Jesus is a story about the faith of NASCAR drivers. It was written in 2008 for the magazine Christianity Today but the information rings true today.

It tells in the story that Tony Stewart's mother says she "prays alot" for her son. I have a good friend whose son fights in Mixes Martial Arts. When asked if she attends his fights, she said, "No, I stay home on my knees." I could feel her pain at watching her son fight in this sport where the winner walks away but the loser usually loses consciousness.

As mothers, one of the most important things we can do for our children is pray for them. But when they are involved in an activity that can be life-threatening such as auto racing, it seems like praying becomes even more imperative.

Are any of you readers the mother of someone involved in NASCAR or another dangerous sport. Let me know how you handle it emotionally and spiritually. I would like to share the stories of mothers for the upcoming Mother's Day.

Thanks.

Phoenix

2010-04-10T19:29:00.002-04:00

Phoenix International Raceway on Saturday, April 10, 2010

The race started with a moment of silence for the West Virginia miners lost this week.

The color guard came from Luke Air Force Base which is very near the race track.

Ken Bower's, PIR Chaplain offered a prayer with a challenge to forgive as we are forgiven.

Dr. Jess McGuire performed the National Anthem on the trumpet and did a great job.

The flyover was 4 F-16's from Luke AFB.

Nice start to the race and the desert looks great.

What is your favorite way to hear the National Anthem performed? I like a group of singers who are singing in 4 part harmony.

Lowes Motorspeedway Invocation for Nationwide Race.

2009-10-16T20:31:00.002-04:00

Tonight's invocation on the Nationwide Race at Lowes Motorspeedway was unlike anything I had ever heard. Here is a transcript of the prayer by Rev. Joe Andresen

Heavenly father we thank you that in your divine providence you made it possible for us to be here tonight. And we ask you Lord to watch over our service men and women here and abroad God that you would protect them as they protect the freedom that we enjoy. And now Father God we lift up to you these asphalt warriors, these high octane gladiators who are going to risk themselves for the thrill of the race. We pray that you would increase their talents and abilities, that you would heighten their senses and awareness. God that you would protect them and give them a race that we will never forget. God that we could have a three-wide, door banging drag race to the checkered flag tonight. Yes Father we believe that nothing but good things are going to come to pass as soon as these men hit the gas. So Father we pray by faith with joy and thanksgiving in our hearts and in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and together all of God’s creation says amen and amen

Nationwide at Bristol

2009-08-21T20:03:00.005-04:00

Tonight's Nationwide Series race was started with an Invocation by Rev. Rife of the Vansant Church of Christ. Rev. Rife prayed specifically for safety and thanking God for the good weather. It seemed more of a prayer and less of a commercial for the track and NASCAR that we have heard lately.

The National Anthem was sung by David Nail. Nail is an up and coming country music singer. I liked his low-key approach to singing. The announcer invited the crowd to join in singing and Nail's rendition was singable. I liked that.

Watkins Glen

2009-08-09T14:03:00.001-04:00

The race is ready to start after the invocation by Rev. Dan Fife of Bentley Creek Wesleyan Church. It sounded weird to hear him say Helava Good Race even though it was the name of the race.

Telluride sang the national anthem with beautiful harmonies. It isn't often that a popular group does such a good job.

There was a fly-over by the 174th Fighter Wing from Syracuse, NY. I hear that fly-overs will be a thing of the past soon. Anyone else know about that?

The Race Starts at Watkins Glen

2009-08-08T15:04:00.003-04:00

Nationwide Race is underway and has been exciting so far.

The invocation was given by Rev. Fife of Bentley Creek Wesleyan Church. The National Anthem was sung by Megan Linville. Megan has a lovely voice, however, the pace of the song was rather slow.

I prefer to have the national anthem sung by in marching band style or by a choir with parts. What do you think?

How could NASCAR improve their opening ceremonies?

Show Begins at Indianapolis

2009-07-26T13:22:00.003-04:00

Today we will have the running of the NASCAR race at the track at Indianapolis-the home of great traditions.

The invocation was given by Rev. Howard Brammer. He said, "May our appreciation of liberty equal the bravery of its defenders." Good job but not as exciting as last night's invocation by Mark Wright.

The National Anthem was sung by Casey Jamerson of Indiana. That was followed by a fly-over by T-38 Talons of Randolph Air Force Base of Sn Antonio, Texas.

Nice start for the day.

Windy City Raceway Ministries

2009-07-10T20:03:00.003-04:00

Tonight's Nationwide race was started with the invocation by Glenn Spoolstra of Windy City Raceway Ministries. You can read more of this ministry here.

How about that fly-over by U.S. Coast Guard helicoptors? Great touch for a city on the Great Lakes where the Coast Guard is so important to us.

I always enjoy the invocation and national anthem but I know there are some out there that don't. What do you think?

Daytona-4th of July Love of Country

2009-07-04T19:32:00.005-04:00

Tonight we're watching the NASCAR Coke Zero 400. This center of the NASCAR racing world is featuring Father Ed Waters giving the invocation. The National Anthem was sung by the 82nd Airborne All American Chorus. The music was beautiful and that is how it should be done.

The opening ceremonies including invocation and National Anthem are favorite parts of the race for me because it emphasizes NASCAR love of God and country.

But today, there was even more focus on country because it is the 233rd birthday of our country. Many drivers are sporting patriotic paint schemes on their cars and even red, white and blue painted helmets.

Also receiving attention is Richard Petty because it is the 25th anniversary of his 200th win.

How did you feel about the invocation and the National Anthem?

NASCAR and Christian Ministries

2009-06-28T19:17:00.002-04:00

I am very interested in finding Christian ministries that work in motor sports, specifically in NASCAR. I love the Christian message that is always present at the races. The prayer is often given by someone from Motorsports Outreach.

I found this article online called God and NASCAR. But I would like more information.

Dear readers, can you help me out? If you know of NASCAR specific ministries, please let me know at

faithinthefastlane@gmail.com.

Thank you.

Richard Childress' Advice

2009-05-30T14:46:00.002-04:00

Max Papis shared the following on twitter today.

Shared great words with Mr. Childress he told racing peaks and valley. Champ comes out of valley faster and never give up so ...I did that.

Good avice to all of us. All of life has peaks and valleys. Are you in a valley or even in the valley of the shadow of death? God can be with you during the valleys even more than He is in the peaks. We tend to be under our pwn power in the peaks but we need to depend on God at all times.

Quilting for Kids

2009-04-30T17:59:00.002-04:00

Kyle Petty posted a picture on Twitter a bit ago of three lovely ladies donating quilts that they had made to Victory Junction Camp. They are Frances Palmer, Betty Motley and Lou Daniel.

According to the Victory Junction website, the camp is "Victory Junction Gang enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun, and empowering, in a safe and medically-sound environment."

I am reminded that each of can do something to help others, no matter what our talents or gifts. These three ladies worked hours to produce a lovely quilt that will bring joy to many children.

We can each do many small deeds daily to bring love to those around us. A simple smile, a patient attitude when in the grocery store or a forgiving attitude when driving in heavy traffic can all go a long way to spreading love. I know it sounds corny but it really works. Try it and let me know how it makes you feel and those around you.

David Poole's Influence

2009-04-30T08:37:00.003-04:00

I read a very moving tribute to David Poole written by a young man whom Poole took under his wing and helped along in his career. How David Poole Changed a Young Sportswriter's Life.

Sam Bundy was a young boy struggling because his parent's personal problems were overflowing and affecting their children. He says,

"Here's the truth: Without David Poole, there's a pretty good chance my life would not have turned out as fruitful as it has.

I have a wonderful wife I've been married to for 15 years. We have a wonderful son, a sweet little Lhasa Apso and a nice home. It's my American Dream come true, really, and it can all be traced back to David."

Poole gave this young man opportunites that Bundy followed. He was a sports writer for the Gaston Gazette and is now the sports editor at the Morning News in Florence, SC.

Reading this article shows how just how much the little actions in life can be a blessing and a help to others.

David Poole

2009-04-28T15:51:00.002-04:00

David Poole, the NASCAR reporter for the Charlotte Observer and the author of Life in the Turn Lane blog, passed away today, April 28, 2009. Details of the cause of death have not been released but Mr. Poole apparently collapsed after his radio program earlier today.

I feel that David Poole was the level head of NASCAR reporting-not always taking the popular viewpoint. He was willing to speak his mind knowing full-well he was going to be thoroughly criticized by his readers.

I have been following and writing about NASCAR for a short time but I definitely followed and respected Mr. Poole's writing and viewpoint. He was a level head in a cacophony of voices in NASCAR media reporting and opinion.

I venture to say that he was the "Tim Russert of NASCAR." A talented writer who was taken too early and had much to offer.

However, we must keep this in perspective. As important as David was to NASCAR, we can't forget that David Poole was also a family man who wrote affectionately about his family. My heart sends out love and blessings to them at this very sad time.

Am I Moving Forward In My Faith?

2008-03-11T20:06:00.000-04:00

Kyle Busch won the Kobalt 500 Sunday in Atlanta. People in the NASCAR world are talking about the great success Kyle is experiencing this year. Currently he is #1 in points in the Craftsman Truck Series and in the Sprint Cup Series. In the Nationwide series, he is #3 and would probably have won the Nationwide race on Saturday if it had not been for a mechanical failure late in the race.
Kyle changed from the Hendricks team to the Joe Gibbs team for the 2008 – 2009 racing year. Does this change contribute to his success? Is Joe Gibbs able to harness Kyle’s spirit in a way that Rick Hendricks couldn’t? These questions are being discussed and will continue to be discussed throughout the NASCAR
A clue to that question may be something I discovered recently when I found that Joe Gibbs has a podcast on ITunes that is free for downloading. It would be worth your time to access Joe’s talk for the week of March 3. It is titled Fellowship with the Lord. This 3 minute talk gives some insight into Joe’s world of leadership. He tells how he makes decisions in his life. Joe says it is important to look at our lives from the viewpoint of what we are doing for the Lord and not how a step will give us money or fame in the racing world.
You also can get a look into the Gibbs garage by going to the web site and looking at the video message for March 7. I put a link for it in the links section of this blog. The address is
www.joegibbsonline.com

You don’t have to have an IPod to use for the ITunes connection. Simply download ITunes (free from www.apple.com )to your computer and then subscribe to the Joe Gibbs podcast. You can listen through your computer or download it to a CD. This is all free.
Enjoy this personal look into the faith of one of the premier team owners in NASCAR. You also get a look at the Gibbs Garage if you look at the video on line.

Our Purpose

2008-03-04T12:28:00.000-05:00

This blog will be a weekly spot for highlighting stories of faith throughout the racing community.

In NASCAR, more than any other professional sport, we see lives of faith displayed. The owners, drivers, crew members, support staff and families spend 36 weeks of the year in the public limelight.

Every week, the drivers put their lives on the line to provide a family-friendly, exciting sporting event.

Many of the owners, drivers, team members and families display a deep faith that guides their lives and gives them a reason beyond simply winning a race for their hard work.

They see their lives as mission-based to share their faith.

The purpose of the blog will be the share their stories and help the readers learn about a side of the racing community not covered in the secular media.

The purpose is to share stories of faith but not to affliate with any specific church or denomination.

Daytona Begins It All

2008-02-17T00:07:00.000-05:00

NASCAR has always held firm to family values. This will be displayed in full view during the festivities at Daytona. No event will start without two important events-the invocation and the National Anthem. Both of these may seem routine but in fact they are recognizing that all accomplishments on the track is based on acknowledging our dependence on God and our country.
So when the invocation is given for the Sprint Cup Race and Trish Yearwood sings the National Anthem-remember that we, like all the participants in the race, owe our lives and everything in it to God and the United States of American. God bless America!