Flannel, the indication that the shorts and t-shirts of summer must be exchanged for something with a little more substance. Looking around you see some of the early indications that the trees will soon be ablaze with the brilliant colors of Fall. Winding down another season and looking forward to some time to reflect. What changes have we made to the path we are walking in life? Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
At the end of the season we need to take time and look back, reflect on what we’ve done. We need to look at where we were and where we are now. Did we end up where we hoped to be? Maybe there is some work still to be done.
We make many changes in life but they all do not work out the way we intended. We think we know what to do, but sometimes we fail to see the entire picture. As we wind down it provides for us a moment to step back and look the path we are walking.
I think some of our greatest moments are when we acknowledge the significance of the small steps we take in life. Think about the little things that you have done this year. The things you have done that have enabled you to grow and advance, not only on the track but in your walk with Christ. Maybe this was the year you started reading your Bible every week or even every day. Maybe this was the year you made an effort to attend chapel service or a local church. Maybe it was the year that you made the effort to talk with God on a regular basis.
Don’t take lightly the things in your life that are truly significant. We all are guilty of not placing the right importance on seemingly little things, but it is the little things that add up to make significant changes in the direction of our lives. I am reminded of Paul’s words to Timothy;
2 Timothy 4:1-8 (New Living Translation); I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he appears to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.
As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.
These were not only the words Paul wrote to encourage Timothy they were the same words one of my mentors shared with me as I entered into ministry.
T.Marshal Thompson was a wise man who had seen many things in his life. He helped me overcome the desire to please men instead of pleasing God. He encouraged me to be a little bolder in my faith. He listened to my fears and helped me overcome them. Little things that helped me become a man dedicated to serve Jesus.
T.Marshal is home now, but his memory is as alive as if he were still here. He helped me focus on the little things that, when you add them up, become significant things in life. He guided me through my doubt and showed me the hand of God on my life. As his life was winding down he took the time to invest in mine.
As we reflect on the things that we have seen and done this past season I ask you to think about those who have helped guide you. Those who have encouraged you to make decisions that were beneficial to your life. Those who provided the resources you needed to continue on.
It is easy to continue on without remembering where you have been or who helped you get to where you are, but I suggest it is more beneficial to reminisce a little. Take a look at the baby steps you took. Remember who was holding your hand as you took those steps.
With another season winding down there is more racing ahead. Without the help of many others we wouldn’t make it to this time of the year and still be able to race. To enter the homestretch each one of us needed the support and encouragement of someone. That support helped us take the little steps that add up to a giant leap. We all need someone to walk by our side. Take time to say thanks and acknowledge what others have given so that we could pursue our dreams.
One of our chaplains reminded me of these verses, Proverbs 3:5-6, written in the form of a prayer. I am thankful for God’s willingness to lead me.
Lord, I trust in you with all my heart and I won’t rely on just what I understand. In all my ways, I will rely on You, because you will direct me in the way I should go. Amen
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.
