Pre-Race Prayer

Whether it's called a Pre-Race Prayer or an Invocation, praying before a race is a good thing. It is written:

Philippians 4:6

New International Version (NIV)
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.


Pre-Race Prayer

"Almighty God, we are thankful for this opportunity to gather together at this racing event, to celebrate life together and have friendships based on our shared interest in racing.

We ask boldly for your protection from danger and for your blessing on the spectators here as well as the judgment, skill and preparation of the drivers, workers and officials. Help us to remember one of your two most important commandments: to love and respect one another. We ask this in your mighty name. Amen "


Pray with other Christians….and stay "connected"

Matthew 18:20
   For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them


 

Knowing God's Will for Our Actions


Perhaps the most profound question asked by every believer is, “How do I know what God wants me to do?” Some claim that their actions or decisions are the result of God putting a certain desire “on their heart”.  Others wait for a “sign” or confirmation of what God wants them to do.  I think one must be careful to not oversimplify.

In the 32nd Psalm, a special message written by David as one of his “maskils” or “special teachings”, he writes: I (God) will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I (God) will counsel you with my loving eye on you. 9 Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding, but must be controlled by bit and bridle.”

God did not create us to be like a horse waiting for instructions as to which direction of path we should take.  He created us with intelligence to make decisions on our own.  God created us with a capacity for aspirations and desires.  Some of these desires are consistent with God’s will—some are not.  One must be careful about making conclusions that a particular aspiration or desire “on our heart” is according to God’s will or not. It is written: “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure,” Jeremiah 17:9

The first action one should take when undertaking the task of indentifying God’s will is prayer.  Pray to God constantly—be in constant fellowship with him.

The second action should be to study the Word of God, generally and specifically.  Generally as a matter of your Christian Walk and specifically to determine what it has to say about the specific question you have.

The third action should be to allow God to speak to you through others. I believe this is the most common way that God “communicates” with us---through others.  Seek the “Counsel of Many”.  LISTEN!!

Fourth, examine your present circumstances and see if they are consistent with the path or decision you are contemplating. 

But have not we heard “God does not call the equipped. He equips the called?” Have we not been told that if we are doing “God’s will” he will give us all we need to get the job done? I believe this is true and is consistent with Hebrews 13: 20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.” There are many examples of God working through ordinary people—equipping them to do according to his will. But that does not mean that God will bless and equip us to fulfill every desire we deem, on our own, to be according to God’s will. In fact, most of the time when God has miraculously “equipped” the improbable, the calling was not part of that person’s “heart’s desire”.

If you have a terrible singing voice and can’t carry a tune in a bucket, God is probably not calling you to be a Gospel singer—no matter how strong your desire to be one. In most cases, God has given you the talents and abilities to reach the goals he desires for you.  Look for “evidence” that is “beyond a reasonable doubt” that God’s plan for you is consistent with your desires by checking all four “resources”—all of which by the way are provided by God for you.  On the other hand, don’t be afraid of obstacles that might be in your path—when doing God’s work, according to his will, anything is possible. If God has placed you at the “fork in the road” do not allow fear to influence your decision.

Then, finally, be on the lookout for the “fruit” of your actions. If it is part of God’s plan, good “fruit” will be the result.  For as taught in Romans 8:28 “God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Blessings,

Chaplain Wayne Strout

stroutmail@yahoo.com

After a 25+ year hiatus from racing, Wayne will be racing his Vortech Formula Vee this year in SCCA National and Regional Competition. In the 1980’s he was a SCCA Division Champion in GT1 and raced in the Trans Am series. He also raced Formula Ford and Formula Vee in SCCA and competed in NASCAR Winston/Nextel/Sprint Cup.  Wayne is an Investment Manager/Economist and the Grandfather of nine. He lives with his wife Carol in Central Pennsylvania.


 

A Theology of Competition


A Theology of Competition?

For many years I have been intrigued by the tension men feel when contemplating the scriptures, words from our Lord himself speaking about his followers: John 17 15 "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of it." AND, the Lord himself speaking to his followers:  Matthew 5 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

We are clearly here “in this world”.  Which activities of the “world” are we to avoid and in which activities are we expected and even encouraged, to participate?

Can a Christian be engaged in competitive business with the goal of winning—being successful?   Can a Christian be engaged in competitive sports with the goal of winning? Clearly there is disagreement as to the correct answer. I do not take the self-righteous attitude that I have the only truth, but I have come to peace with an answer that works for me that seems logical and consistent with scripture.

A quite thorough discussion of this subject is covered in a white paper titled God of the Games: Towards A Theology of Competition whose abstract states:The purpose of this paper is to explore a theological view of competition. Competition is so engrained in economic and social systems that even Christians fail to ask what God thinks about it. Is the God who is Love also the God of the competitive atmosphere of sports, business or law? Or, as many Christians think, does God hate competition and want Christians to avoid it? The answer is surprisingly complex.”

According to the authors, contemporary Christian thought can be placed into one of four categories or mutually exclusive states: 1) Christ Resists—this point of view condemns competition because it is an evil entrapping the Christian. Christ-likeness and competitive desires are inherently opposed and irreconcilable; 2) Christ Reforms—this point of view acknowledges the “potential” evil resulting from competition but believes Christians have a duty to participate in it and reform it; 3) Christ and Competition in Partnership—God created competition to be good for man’s benefit and for God’s glory; and 4) Christ and Competition in Paradox—Competition is neither condemned or encouraged as it can be good or evil, like the “world” Christians are called to be “in” but not “of” competition.

While clearly God calls some to the “monastic” life (State 1 above) with a withdrawal from the “world” and it’s evil ways, I would argue that scripture clearly calls the vast majority of Christians to the words of Matthew 5 instructing us to let our “light shine before others” by participating in the world, not withdrawing from it. Some are called to far off lands on “missions”---others are called to be “missionaries” to “minister” to their neighbors and colleagues while engaged in “worldly” commercial and recreational activities.
I think as Christians we are called in our “life ministry” to display the gentle characteristics of the shepherd. But a study of David, a “man after God’s own heart” shows that even shepherds are sometimes called to engage in less than gentle activities, like slaying the lion, when necessary. Sometimes, as men, we are called to be a kind and gentle, but very masculine, testosterone filled knight to serve and glorify God in the world.  Competition can be a part of our lives where men are sometimes called to act consistent with our created role as kind and gentle, but very masculine, testosterone filled knights.

You will not find any words in Scripture that state: “Thou Shall Not Compete”. Neither will you find any commandments “Thou shall compete”.  You will find many passages that tell us that our motives and attitudes are critical to behavior that is pleasing to God. In the Bible, competition seems to be a part of the human condition that can be turned towards either good or evil, depending on the goals and the motivations of the persons involved. The individual’s use of competition, like other areas where power is present, makes it good or bad.

The love of God is our first commandment. We are warned about the love of Money,  as well as the Love of Victory. We are told that the two most important commandments are to Love God and Love One Another.  We must be careful when competing that we comply with those commandments. We must also remember that Pride is the source of much evil and excess Pride is inconsistent with a successful Christian life.

John Calvin, the important theologian of the Reformation argued that human activity, carried on in obedience to God’s law, was an expression of His will as it related to the coming of the new heavens and earth. Therefore, competition, a human activity, has a place in God’s plan and the Christian can freely participate in it, but must be careful to do so in love. In individual competition, the Christian is to glorify God, and be free from pride, vindictiveness and the love of victory.  We accept winning as the result of God’s will—not man’s will and especially not our own will.

Several months ago I wrote an article entitled “Why we Race.” I asked, “Is racing an activity consistent with God’s plan for Christian life?” I could have used the title “Why we Compete” and the question could have been, “Is competitive business or politics consistent with God’s plan”. The answer—“It depends!”
Money is not evil, but the love of money is the source of much evil. Similarly, competition is not bad, but the love of glory solely for your own vanity, power, recognition and advancement, at others’ expense, can be troublesome. Some will recall the 1981 movie “Chariots of Fire”.  It is based on a true story about how a non-Christian athlete (Harold Abrahams) and a Christian athlete (Eric Liddell) both won gold medals in the 1924 Olympics. It is an interesting study of how two people can achieve the same glorious human prize with different motivations, reasons, and methods. Liddell raced to bring honor to God and to give God pleasure by displaying God’s gifts.  Abrahams raced for pride, to prove himself better than others.

Rick Warren in his book the “Purpose-Driven Life” teaches that one of the main reasons for our existence is to please God. Another is to enjoy real fellowship with other men and women.  God has created us “in his image” and accordingly gives each one of us a strong drive and aspiration towards mastery. As God is the master of his creation—he gets pleasure when we display our own mastery over our creation/s. He has also given each of us unique and special gifts.  He gets pleasure when we use and display these gifts for the right purpose/s. I think this quote from Eric Liddell sums it up.  “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.”

Remember, God made you for a purpose.  If God meant you to race, he also made you capable of being fast—displaying a mastery of machine and speed.  So when you race, race for the “right” reason and you will feel God’s pleasure. And……what’s the “right” reason?

Scripture gives the answer:  whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God”  1 Corinthians 10:31 and Love your neighbor as yourselfMatthew 22:39

Soli Deo Gloria! For the Glory of God Alone

Blessings,

Chaplain Wayne Strout

stroutmail@yahoo.com

After a 25+ year hiatus from racing, Wayne will be racing his Vortech Formula Vee this year in SCCA National and Regional Competition. In the 1980’s he was a SCCA Division Champion in GT1 and raced in the Trans Am series. He also raced Formula Ford and Formula Vee in SCCA and competed in NASCAR Winston/Nextel/Sprint Cup.  Wayne is an Investment Manager/Economist and the Grandfather of nine. He lives with his wife Carol in Central Pennsylvania.

Winning is Fun! But, What about Losing?

Back in June I wrote:  25 years ago, I raced for my own glory. Now, I race for God’s glory…seriously. This weekend on 6/10/2012, at the MARRS race event at Summit Point, WV, we finished in first place in Formula Vee. An exciting race it was, with many lead changes and very close competition. This was our third race this year at Summit Point and only our fourth outing in the car…after a 25 year hiatus away from SCCA racing.

When something extraordinarily good happens—give God the credit and glory. Read Romans 8 28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” His providential hand is always in it. He gives the skill, ability and judgment. He brings the right people together at the right time and place. And, he provides protection and guidance---all for his purpose, and almost always because of the “right kind” of prayer.”

Again at Summit Point on 09/01/2012, we finished in First Place in Formula Vee. A little less exciting as we led the entire FV race, but still just as satisfying. (Video available at WS Speed Analytics site and on YouTube as MARRS 12.) As I said, when something good happens—Give God the credit and glory as his hand is always in it.  So be it this time too. It is always fun to “do well” when you know God has blessed your effort.

MARRS 13 on Monday, 09/03/2012 was a different story and not as much fun. (Video is available at WS Speed Analytics site and on YouTube as MARRS 12.) I did not start from the pole because of traffic during qualifying and became very frustrated during the early part of the race as traffic and race “action” was different than what I expected. It seemed like many drivers were racing as if every lap was the last lap of the race. I managed to gain the lead after several laps, but then became too conservative and “the pack” with help of the “draft” passed me at the end of the long straight. I tried to give racing room to one “dive bomber”, going wide in turn 1, but my speed was too fast for the line—I drifted off the outside of the track and spun—an amateur mistake.  Then, as I began catching up, I passed another competitor and made another amateur mistake—locking up a rear brake while trail breaking into a corner and spinning—again! Despite turning the fastest lap time of the race, I finished way back—almost last—my worst finish of the year. 

What a contrast!  So what was going on? 

Take a minute and again read Romans 8 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”. So God was at work on Friday AND Monday, for my good when I won AND when I lost! It was very clear that I was under God’s protection during my spins—not a scratch on the car or me.

For many, and especially in my case, figuring out what “good” could possibly come from losing was hard. It has taken me at least six weeks of deep thought and prayer.  I re-examined the appropriateness of “Competition” by Christians. I re-examined my belief that my racing was part of God’s plan for me.  I am pleased to say that this re-examination and prayer is probably exactly what I needed and what God intended as I have learned a lot.

First, in every competition there are winners and those who do not win.  On 09/03/2012, I am pretty sure the results were according to God’s plan for me but also for the driver who won.  That driver, a friend and a good man, won the MARRS FV Championship for 2012 and for him, winning the Championship AND the last race was important.

So what have I learned?  First and most importantly- For Christians, competition is NOT all about winning. To most “worldly” unbelievers, this seems utter non-sense. But God’s intent for Christians is that competition should be all about the “love of Competition” and NOT about the “love of Victory”.   It is the love of Money that is the root of evil—not Money itself nor the “competitive business” activities that are rewarded with Money. It is the love of Victory that is the root of evil—not Victory itself nor the activities (competition) that are rewarded with Victory.

(I will be writing a separate and complete post all about Christians and competition.)

Excess Pride is always a sin. It is hateful to God and is the cause of most evil.  (It is my personal weakness and only with the Grace of Christ am I able to overcome it.)  Excess Pride is always the underlying current beneath a love of Victory.  A love of Victory focuses our attention on defeating others rather than simply doing our best and glorifying God.  A love of Victory turns potentially beneficial competition away from fellowship and performance toward ambitious rivalry and conflict.  In any competition there can only be one “winner” and many times it will not be me or you that God chooses to help win that day.  So, I am convinced of two things:  A) I did not do my best in Monday’s race when I “lost”—I will apply what I learned next time and improve; and B) God’s plan that day did not include me being the winner—I needed a reminder about Pride and he had plans to favor another driver.  

Keep in mind that “doing your best” includes having trust in confidence both in yourself and in God’s providence. When I “held back” during that lap after taking the lead, being “prematurely conservative”-- it was because I did not have enough trust and confidence. (Funny how Pride and a lack of confidence/trust can coexist!)  Watch the video and you can see I was two to three miles per hour slower than “normal” entering the most important turn 10- beginning of the longest straightaway.

This whole racing season has been a wonderful opportunity for a process of self-examination and personal spiritual growth. Racing can be a way to further develop your relationship with God through Christ—to be closer to him. It is that relationship and closeness with him that is God’s desire for us.

In the end, I must say that I enjoyed winning two races this year (40% of the five events we completed.) but after careful thought and prayer, “not winning” produced even more reward/s! Romans 8 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”.

Blessings,

Chaplain Wayne Strout

stroutmail@yahoo.com

After a 25+ year hiatus from racing, Wayne will be racing his Vortech Formula Vee this year in SCCA National and Regional Competition. In the 1980’s he was a SCCA Division Champion in GT1 and raced in the Trans Am series. He also raced Formula Ford and Formula Vee in SCCA and competed in NASCAR Winston Cup.  Wayne is an Investment Manager/Economist and the Grandfather of nine. He lives with his wife Carol in Central Pennsylvania.

How God uses Racing

God uses our interest and passion for racing as a way to quickly build relationships. Also, God can use racing to breakdown barriers and reach people that normally wouldn’t be reached. This opens the door to sharing with them that we have more than just a passion for cars and racing, we have a greater passion for Jesus.

History

Jim Clark at Indy 1963-1965

Ever since my Dad took me to the Indy 500 in 1963, when I was 12, I've known that motorsports and internal combustion engines would be part of my life. That was the year when the era of the old front engined race cars was coming to an end, replaced by rear engined ones--the first glimpse being the Lotus driven by Jim Clark, finishing 2nd that year. Still, the sound of Andy Granatelli's  powerful but old fashioned Novi engines reving up was quite impressive. My Dad was a gifted mechanic with an extraordinary knowledge of automobile, aircraft and diesel engines. My early life centered around an interest in engines and vehicles.  I became a Certified Master Auto Technician and a graduate Mechanical Engineer.  I owned a chain of car repair centers and later co-founded a company that designed engine parts and components.


My Swift DB1 Formula Ford--1986

National Championship Runoffs-Practice in the rain!

My TranAm Car at Brainerd MN--1985
Racing against the likes of Paul Newman and Bruce Jenner
(Sponsored by Enginetech and Metal Leve)

I tried my hand in drag racing at an early age, but quit to pursue my business career and take care of my family.  Later, at age 34, after attending the Bob Bondurant Racing School, I competed in SCCA Club Racing (GT1, FF, and FV) and Pro Racing (Trans Am and FF2000). I became the SEDIV Champion for GT1 and competed for the National Championship in GT1 and FF.   At age 36, I decided to form a NASCAR Winston Cup Team, building a 10,000 square foot shop in North Carolina where I built engines and did research using a dynomometer.  I qualified for my first Winston Cup race at Dover in 1987.  A serious accident at Rockingham convinced me that God had other plans for me.  (The first lesson--I had let Pride cause me to ignore God's "still small voice".)

(One of the major benefits of these activities over more than three years was that my son, Donald Jr. was 14 when we started.  He was actively involved and at age 15 actually served as my chief mechanic at some SCCA races---he was able to rebuild the Formula Ford transmission and cylinder heads at the track without supervision and faster/better than I could! He learned a lot from the experience and we grew closer together. Perhaps that was one of God's intended purposes for it all.)


My Winston Cup Car at Charlotte-1987
(Sponsored by Greyhound Package Express)

I went back to school and earned an MBA from the Wharton School.  I used that education in Finance to serve others--helping other people manage Private Equity investments (As a CEO/COO) and to later help people on a local level as a Financial Advisor and as an Investment Manager/Economist. I became a diligent student of God's Word. I was ordained as a Ruling Elder at my Presbyterian Church.  My life became less about me and my pride and more about living according to God's plan for me.

Fast forward to 2011, at age 60, I heard that still small voice clearly. (Read 1 Kings 19:11-13) Link: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2019:11-13&version=NKJV   I was making a living as an Investment Manager,  helping people find God's plan for them in regards to money and wealth.  I felt the call that I could do more. God was not calling me to end my service to others regarding financial management. He wasn't calling me to be a missionary in some far off land. He was calling me to expand my service to others by using my gift for teaching to go out and encourage others to make God a part of their entire lives--including their recreational "weekend" activities. In other words to stay connected to God and Christ in everything we do.  I realized that perhaps my background and interest in racing, as well as my participation might be the basis on building relationships. I was appointed, and volunteered as the unpaid Northeast Chaplain for Road Race Ministries and I purchased the race car that I intended to drive. (I would never claim to be a "great" racing driver, but like many others, I have a God given talent and aspiration to control and "master" the operation of a race car on a road racing track.)


See link to website below

                                                     http://www.roadraceministries.com/About_Us.html

The mission and work of Road Race Ministries is about providing Pastoral Care (Prayer, Concern, Understanding, Teaching, and Encouragement) to the SCCA Club and Pro Racing Communities--an entity of people that have their own culture and interwoven relationships.  A special people who may or may not have an affiliation with a local church but in any case, seldom have the opportunity to worship together at the track.

Winston Cup Past (Sprint Cup) 1987-88

Charlotte for Sponsor Greyhound Package Express
 
First race at Dover, ahead of Cale Yarborough, beside JD McDuffie and ahead of Michael Waltrip.
            

The Car




Photos are of car as configured and driven by former owner, Bob Neumeister of Colorado, sometimes known as "Nuby".  He set fastest lap at Road America National Championships in 2010 and 2011.

I chose Formula Vee because it is a class based on the aircooled engine and basic chassis components from a 1960's VW. With limited modifications allowed, costs are relatively low and competition is spirited. Many of the top drivers in this class, although amateurs, have skill levels consistent with top professionals. Because of the high level of driver skill and limited horsepower (60 hp is a strong engine! My sons remind me that some lawnmowers are more powerful.) the class provides a reasonably safe but challenging experience at reasonable cost.  Because competition is so close and spirited, Formula Vee races are sometimes the most watched events during the weekend.

The car's colors will change slightly for 2012 with the rear section remaining "sky blue" but with the front being changed to white.  My permanent number  in the NEDIV will be 8--the number that signifies "new" in the Bible and many believe is the number of Jesus who made everything new.

Why we Race

Why we Race
Is racing an activity consistent with God’s plan for Christian life?
The answer—“It depends!”

Money is not evil, but the love of money is the source of much evil. Similarly, competition is not bad, but the love of glory solely for your own vanity, recognition and advancement, at others’ expense, can be troublesome.

Some will recall the 1981 movie “Chariots of Fire”.  It is based on a true story about how a non-Christian athelete (Harold Abrahams) and a Christian athlete (Eric Liddell) both won gold medals in the 1924 Olympics. It is an interesting study of how two people can achieve the same glorious human prize with different motivations, reasons, and methods.

Liddell raced to bring honor to God and to give God pleasure by displaying God’s gifts.  Abrahams raced for pride, to prove himself better than others.

Rick Warren in his book the “Purpose-Driven Life” teaches that one of the main reasons for our existence is to please God. Another is to enjoy real fellowship with other men and women.

God has created us “in his image” and accordingly gives each one of us a strong drive and aspiration towards mastery. As God is the master of his creation—he gets pleasure when we display our own mastery over our creation/s. He has also given each of us unique and special gifts.  He gets pleasure when we use and display these gifts for the right purpose/s.

I think this quote from Eric Liddell sums it up.  “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.”

Remember, God made you for a purpose.  If God meant you to race, he also made you capable of being fast—displaying a mastery of machine and speed.  So when you race, race for the “right” reason and you will feel God’s pleasure. And, what’s the “right” reason?

Scripture gives the answer:  whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God”  1 Corinthians 10:31 and Love your neighbor as yourselfMatthew 22:39

Soli Deo Gloria! For the Glory of God Alone

Preparation

 
For most of us, particularly for us who live in the frigid north, February is the time that most racers are engaged in the activities of “preparation” for the upcoming racing season. There are many things to do.  This year, those who did not use head and neck restraints are making an investment in a new “device” that will be required by SCCA in 2012. Need to check the date stamps on the safety equipment and be sure the fire suppression system is functional.  We need to be sure those race car batteries are properly charged. Now is the time we decide to make those “competitive improvements” to our cars. And, don’t forget to sign up and register for applicable contingencies available from sponsors. It’s also a time to get the trailer more organized and maybe even upgrade the tow vehicle and hitch.
For some like me, this is also the time to get physically prepared. Starting out at a weight of 235 pounds in October, I’m now down to 200…diet, exercise and determination do work!  In order for me to be competitive in my tiny Formula Vee (1025 pounds, with driver) I need to lose another 15 pounds. I am doing old fashioned military style calisthenics (push ups, sit ups etc.) and building up endurance on our antique Nordic Trak and Schwinn Airdyne.  My heart rate and blood pressure are much lower.  
The Bible is full of stories about the importance of preparation. The first is in Genesis 6 where God gives Noah instructions of how to prepare for the Flood. Noah did everything just as God commanded him.
Another story is in 1 Chronicles 22 where David is told that he cannot build the Temple, but that his son, Solomon will. David helps insure that Solomon is ready for the project by making extensive preparations before David’s death.  
In 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) we are taught “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”  To me, this means “preparing” by spending some time reading the Bible (the Word of God) and thinking—organizing your thoughts so as to be able to clearly explain to others why you know you are on your way to eternal life in Heaven.
Our activities related to “preparation” here on earth remind me that our life here..everything we do here.. is really all about preparation—preparing for our journey to Heaven. In John 14:1-4 Christ himself tells us that he is going to our “Father’s house” to “prepare a place” for us and that he will come back for us!
When we are preparing our race cars and ourselves for winning the next race and trophy, let’s never forget the more important goal of pleasing God and winning the most important race and prize as taught in  Philippians 3:14 (NLT) “press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Be Prepared!

First Outing--Testing/Racing at VIR

Here's the Formula Vee with it's new "look". Notice the Christian "sign of the fish" and the Christian red Cross of St. George as well as the Road Race Ministries decal and the decal of the financial sponsor WS Wealth Managers Inc. Also, the contingency sponsors Hoosier (who give us 2 free tires if we win) and VW (that gives us $200 if we win.) The car's number 8 is the number that signifies "new" in the Bible and many believe is the number of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ who made everything new.



I needed to test the car and get some track time. Tried to go to Summit Point, but the PDX/Track Trials there did not allow open wheel cars, and no Gasoline Alley Test Days were scheduled yet. So we decided to tow 340 miles (each way) to Virginia International Raceway for a Regional Race--it was a test of the tow rig and our logistics as well as the car. Arrived in South Boston, VA at 2AM, up with only 4 hours sleep at 6AM to drive to track, unload the car and go thru Registration and Tech. (Nice people with the SCCA NCR at VIR!) Practice and qualifying at 8:30AM.

Never been on this track or in this car, so it was "interesting" but "relatively" uneventful. (I did do a 180 degree spin in Turn One, but stayed on the track and recovered.) Car did not handle as expected. Brakes pulsated, wheels hopped under braking, and car became very "light" in one spot, where steering input did nothing and car was out of control for a second or so.

Back to pit and adjusted brakes, and then put on new tires. On the last wheel (LF) one of the brake drum threads for one lug nut stripped. Being fearful this "might" happen--we were prepared. But, we had only 45 minutes or so to install new bearings and drum. I was now not only tired, but also a bit flustered.

Started the race on "stickers"--brand new soft compound Hoosier tires. Another driver had given me insight about the car being light in turn 8. Seems there is a slight rise there and you need to start turning before you can see the apex so when you go "airborne" you are pointed in the right direction. Adapted with no problem. But the brakes and wheel hop problem were still bothersome, along with the fact that I could not move the shift lever normally--I had to push it with my fingers for downshift and pull back with two fingers on the upshift. These issued caused me to loose trust that the car would behave predictably. Decided this was a test and not important how I finished, being a bit wary about brakes and suspension, I backed off and held back. Finished race without being lapped, and actually got a trophy for a 3rd place "podium" finish. I plan on being much faster next time. Plan on being back at VIR in May.

Loaded up and drove home, arriving at about Midnight.

The hand of God was clearly at work all weekend. I stayed safe despite being tired and not at my best. (Had the spare parts I needed to make repairs. And many thanks to Shannon Jones for lending me the wheel bearing grease.) Learned that I needed to make some changes to the car. My racing buddie Jon had a great attitude and was a big encouragement. No problems with the tow rig. Thank the Lord.

I was disappointed that we did not go faster--more on this in a separate message. I think God was perhaps disciplining me for having a bit too much pride.

Disappointment

Part of life is hope and expectations. Another part of life is the disappointment we experience when what we hoped for or expected does not happen at all or fails to meet the high level of our expectations. Much of the Old Testament is filled with stories of disappointment—put there for the purpose to teach us. Stories about Joseph, Moses and David come to mind. All were beloved by God, but all experienced disappointment. Usually disappointment is centered on people and/or circumstances.


For a racer, there is hope that the car and driver will perform flawlessly. There is an expectation that any and all challenges will be met and overcome. In other words, “success” is the goal—measured by victory or just “going fast”. I had high hopes for my “new” car. My expectation was that it had been perfectly prepared by one of the most experienced Formula Vee racers in the US and that it would perform flawlessly. (It also had set the fastest lap at the SCCA National Runoffs.) I hoped (and expected) that I would adapt to the car as quickly as I had “found speed” with the Formula cars at the Skip Barber Racing School in December. Alas, I experienced a bit of disappointment. The car did not handle like I expected it to handle—it had some unusual quirks that made me suspicious of some sort of mechanical problem that might affect safety. The threads for the lugs nuts on one brake drum stripped and I had to replace the brake drum—in a hurry with little time and a lot of mental pressure to meet the time deadline. No time to install the spindle reinforcement bushing—creating a higher than expected concern for spindle breakage. The left rearview mirror unexplainably became loose and I was “blind” on one side. I decided prudence was the better part of valor and I was “slow”. (I am not used to being “slow”.) To say the least, I was disappointed. On the other hand, I could see God’s providence throughout the trip and I was very thankful. But, still, I was disappointed.


Sometimes it is difficult for us to understand why God does not answer our prayers and just “favor” us so everything turns out they way we expect it to turn out! But it is important to remember that the most important time for our faith to be strong is when we are disappointed and confused about what God might be doing in our lives.


Disappointment comes when we have an unreasonably high level of expectations for people or we allow our joy to be dependent on circumstances beyond our control. We should think of disappointment as a test permitted by God to see if we will continue to trust HIM, obey HIM and love HIM, recognizing that our true joy is dependent only on our relationship with God. It is also a way that God deals with our excess Pride.

According to Dr. Paris Reidhead, the enemy uses disappointment as the “tip of the spear” in his battle to defeat us. Disappointment leads to Discouragement that leads to Disillusionment, then to Depression and finally Defeat.


So what’s the remedy for disappointment…As usual, the answer is in the Word..


Trust God and Be Thankful.


1 Thessalonians 5:18 “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”


and


Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”


Just like Joseph, Moses, and David, God will provide for you and in the end, as sure as Summer follows Winter, for those your love God, place their trust in Him and call Jesus their Lord, God will not disappoint.


Have Faith


Credit to http://bible.org/seriespage/chapter-14-dealing-disappointment  and Author Vickie Kraft who provided the inspiration for and many of the ideas presented in this message.

Emotions and Perseverance

When men compete, there is always the potential for conflict. Usually, the conflict is based on emotions; fear or the desire to dominate and intimidate. I believe the spiritual danger caused by these emotions is far greater than any physical danger coming from driving fast. In previous messages, I indicate that the godly purpose of racing competition is the display of God-given ability, skills and mastery, along with the display of evidence of superb preparation. Unfortunately, big egos can divert our attention from the godly purpose to the worldly purpose.

Sooner or later, no matter how loving and “professional” your behavior on the track, you will be confronted with someone who will attempt to create conflict by accusing you of some “wrongdoing”. You were “in his way” or you “passed improperly” or “took the wrong line”. Invariably, you will be accused of being either stupid, incompetent or crazy and usually the confronter will justify his behavior by labeling you as “dangerous”. If you are new and unfamiliar to the group you are racing with, the probability of this happening to you goes up dramatically. What is a good Christian to do? How should you deal with this angry, always emotional tantrum?

First, remember the Commandment from our Lord and Savior: Love each other as Christ loves you. John 15:12. Second, remember Proverbs 15: A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. If the worldly goal of the confronter was to intimidate and dominate, a gentle answer will send the clear signal that you as a follower of Christ, cannot be intimidated. In many cases, the confronter is being driven by fear; fear of being surpassed or fear of being unable to predict your actions. If fear is driving the confronter, empathy for his state and a display of Christian Love is called for. Whatever is driving the confronter, the appropriate response is always a “gentle answer”. He may not ever become your friend, but he will wonder about where your strength comes from. You will have fulfilled your assignment of being “light” in the darkness.

James 1 covers this issue: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. James 1 also covers other “challenges” all too familiar to racing participants. 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

The foregoing pretty much sums up my 4/21-22 weekend at Summit Point—the first weekend there as both a participant (FV) and as Chaplain. (The last time at Summit Point for me was when I finished 7th in my first pro Trans Am race there in 1985.) I was confronted by a gentleman who complimented my car, calling it a “rocketship” and angrily scolded me for not “staying behind him” for 8 laps of practice/qualifying so I could “learn the track” by following him. (I passed him once and later followed him for 7 laps after he and his drafting buddy performed a dangerous dive-bomb pass at the end of the straight. I was faster than him on the straights and several corners, but slower in four of the ten corners of the course.) My response to him was “gentle” and calm. Later on Saturday, the clouds opened up with a downpour and the entire FV grid was given 15 minutes to change to rain tires. It took me 16 minutes, so I arrived to an empty grid, with everyone having already departed—I then raced to catch them before the green flag, seeing pretty much nothing other than big rooster tail clouds during the shortened race. I finished third—drenched and shivering from cold. Heavy rain continued on Sunday and attendance at our first Chapel was disappointing. But, happy to say, the “trials and tests” did not produce any level of discouragement. I will persevere and return to Summit Point two weeks hence in May.

Blessings,

Chaplain Wayne Strout

Zealots and Anti-Zealots

Progress toward becoming the Chaplain for the Washington DC SCCA Region has been encouraging. Our efforts were enthusiastically welcomed by most of the club’s leaders and a visit to the WDCR website shows Wayne Strout as the Club Racing Chaplain. Numerous workers and a few drivers have come up to me and given me private encouragement.  Praise God!
I certainly try to enthusiastically follow the most important commandment to love God and Jesus with all my heart, mind and soul. But, up to now, I would never have applied the name of “zealot” to me.  But recently, that is what I have been described as being. And after prayerful thought, I think I will happily accept the title.
Upon being accepted as the Chaplain, I naturally offered to provide an Invocation as part of the weekend’s National Race Opening Ceremony.   Initially my offer was accepted. With great joy, but with some caution, I penned an invocation that I thought would be acceptable to anybody other than those few who complain about “under God” being a part of the Pledge of Allegiance. To my great surprise, there were several people who voiced really strong objections to “invoking God” at an SCCA Club Racing event. These same people had no problem with me holding a Chapel service for those who want to voluntarily attend, but did not want the “zealots imposing their religion on non-zealots”.  It was decided that the best way to handle the controversy was to allow the invocation to be at the “option and sole discretion” of each event’s Chief Steward. 
It was the comment about “zealots and non-zealots” that got me thinking. Was the Invocation an affront to the “non-zealots”?  I think not.  Those who could be described as a “non-zealot” are mostly ambivalent.  A call thanking God for being able to race safely and asking for a blessing on all of the participants is probably not objectionable to them—sort of like when the President says “God Bless America” and seeing “In God We Trust” on our money.  But, to an “anti-zealot” calling on God is seen as a threat.
The term “Zealot” was first used to describe a sect of Judaism at the time of Christ who opposed “unjust and secular” Roman rule. Many believe that the Apostle Paul as a Zealot. The Hebrew description would translate to “one who is zealous on behalf of God”.
OK, then I admit, as an “Ambassador of Christ” I am certainly “zealous on behalf of God”—I am a zealot.  So why would anyone object to being “zealous on behalf of God” in public, thanking him for his Grace and asking for his blessing for all—zealots, non-zealots and anti-zealots (human secularists) alike?
 Those that could be called “anti-zealots” many times see Christians and those who “invoke God” as self centered, judgmental, self righteous extremists who want to “limit freedom” by “imposing their views” on others. In some ways, their suspicions are founded. Many times Christians do try to improperly impose their views on others—with good intentions, but still improperly imposing. We are to serve as “examples” and not judges and accusers.
Remember that “the World” is usually a hostile place. Our efforts to be “salt and light” may not be universally welcomed. In fact there will be those that oppose our efforts. Remember that scripture teaches that light always overcomes darkness in the end.  As said by our Lord and Savior in John 16:33  “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

PS. On May 6, in my first National Race in 26 years, my FV finished a respectable “mid-pack” 8th in a very competitive field.

God Always Delivers-In His Own Time and for Good Reason


Previous posts have highlighted our FV racing efforts and our parallel, related efforts to serve as a Chaplain for SCCA Club Racing at Summit Point, being “salt and light” as Christians are commanded to be by our Lord…Trying to establish a Chapel or Pre-Race Prayer meeting at events so that Christians follow the teaching in Hebrews 10:25And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another”.

25 years ago, I raced for my own glory.  Now, I race for God’s glory…seriously.  This weekend on 6/10/2012, at the MARRS race event at Summit Point, WV, we finished in first place in Formula Vee.  An exciting race it was, with many lead changes and very close competition. This was our third race this year at Summit Point and only our fourth outing in the car…after a 25 year hiatus away from SCCA racing. 

When something extraordinarily good happens—give God the credit and glory. Read Romans 8:28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”  His providential hand is always in it.  He gives the skill, ability and judgment.  He brings the right people together at the right time and place. And, he provides protection and guidance---all for his purpose, and almost always because of the “right kind” of prayer.

Most will agree that a 61 year old, who hasn’t raced in 25 years, would not normally be able to excel in competitive Formula Vee racing, at least not without a long time of “getting back into the groove”.  So, I submit, my winning a competitive race at this time is only possible with God’s divine providence and assistance. So, like Tim Tebow and Trevor Bayne, I give God the credit and the glory.  Mark 10 in Scripture comes to mind, “All things are possible with God”.  Like the story of Gideon in Judges 7, who was told to reduce the size of his army from 32,000 to 300 to achieve victory, sometimes God chooses to make the “unlikely” occur—to insure that it is obvious that his hand is in it…to be sure his “light” shines more brightly.

What is the “right kind” of prayer?  Christ taught us to pray, giving us what is called the “Lord’s Prayer” or “Our Father”.  It starts with an acknowledgement of God and his status, along with a desire that God’s Will be put above all else. “Thy will be done”  It only asks for what we need to serve Him, our “daily bread”. It asks for forgiveness and protection from temptation and evil.  The “right kind” of prayer does not present “please give me this or that” requests.  Requests are not to be based on vanity or our selfish desire to be elevated above others.  It does ask that we be allowed to be an instrument of God in order for “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven”.

God wants to be “connected” to you. He wants to be with you and he wants to guide and protect you. Ask for these things and he will answer your prayers. And in many cases, if it serves his purpose, he may just elevate you so that your light shines before others, as is taught in Matthew 5, 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”.