Years ago the company I worked for was a major NASCAR contingency sponsor, we were on the expensive front fender. Seizing upon that precedent, I wrote a contingency plan for SCORE, the off road racing series in the desert. I was able to deal with all classes, and levels of racers, but the Trophy Trucks-or factory teams-were my favorite. 750hp NASCAR engines in a chassis with 38" of suspension travel, and you have a wild ride. The Baja 1000 is perhaps the most well known of all these races, racing 1000 miles on dirt roads through Mexico.
I dealt with such well known racers as Ivan "Ironman" Stewart, Jimmie Johnson-he used to call me sir, Robbie Gordon, the Herbsts, Rob Mac Cachran, Jimmie Smith, and the Simons. My favorite were the Simons.
Paul and Dave were both partners with their dad Don, in a construction company. And very fast racers. Robbie Gordon, the king of understatement, once told them "it's my talent against your money." Sorry Robbie, it was their talent against what you thought money had bought them. Racing for the Rough Riders, the Ford factory team, they had set a record in winning the 1000, and were always among the fastest. Great guys to be around, just being in the pits was exciting. Paul was standoffish, but I got to know Dave and his family. In 1996 during the Baja 500, Dave and co-driver Mike Harris ran off the road at over 100mph, totaling the truck. Somehow, through the grace of God both survived, and somehow the race team rebuilt the race truck and they won the Firecracker 250 in Barstow less than three weeks later. Incredible. But it was during that time I got to know Dave, as God put on my heart to write him a letter, that affected his life. The Holy Spirit gave me words, and when Dave asked "did you write me that letter?" and learned I did, said "that letter changed my life, it came at a time when I needed it most." Words of encouragement in Jesus Christ, to a brother in need. The last time I saw Dave, he and his family are walking with Christ, with glorious stories to tell. The story of his buying the land where their church stands today is precious. Dave didn't know at the time I had been praying with his dad for him and Paul. Paul came around later, giving Don his hearts desire, saved sons. If you travel I-15 north by the Temecula check point, look east to the mountain. The cross on top was put there by Don, a tribute to Jesus Christ. I remember him being excited when God gave him that idea, and I remember him and his family and the impact Jesus made in their lives each time I go by.
Don Tebbe, the crew chief was also a Christian, and we would share so much together. We actually held up the 1000 once praying at the starting line with my son Andrew. When we looked up over 200 people had joined us, including ESPN and their film crew. Sometimes just being there, is all God requires, He does the rest. I also got to share with Ed Frisk, an old crew chief of the Simons, who later gave his life to the Lord. He told me "you were right, their is a difference." And Jesus makes it. All because I cared enough to share the love of Christ, and used words when I could. Your witness is always present, someone is always watching.
Jesus tells us that we are a royal priesthood. Now He didn't mean the robes, incense, etc.-but that as Christians we are part of a higher calling, and held to a higher standard. Like the Simons in racing, the lower class racers looked up to them-they had a responsibility in the race community. We as a part of a priesthood have that same responsibility to those we meet. We should show love, so that those hurting will approach and we can minister. We should show compassion, setting an example of Jesus for them. We should be patient, as it leads to salvation, and be reminded that Jesus said "to him who is given much, much is required." What is required-love. What was given-love. Love all you meet, simple.
In Dave's accident it opened up a chance for me to share Jesus. At the start of the 1000, we got to pray for many, and show our concern for all the racers. The cross on I-15 is there for all passers by to be led to Christ, just like the one He hang on at Calvary, don't pass it by without stopping to spend time with Jesus. Look to the cross, and not your problems-they were all crucified there with Him that Good Friday.
Today the only race you may be in is a rat race. But you are still part of the human race, which sometimes seems to be a race just to survive. As Christians we are above all social, political, racial, and denominational boundaries. We serve a risen Christ, with a freedom that no one else can enjoy. But remember that freedom isn't free, it was paid for with a price on the cross. That same love that changed your life is available to all, and Jesus wants you to be that messenger. Take the time to share him at work-when others are stressed, why are you so calm? When finances crumble, why are you still taken care? When health issues invade, why can you still smile and say "how can I pray for you?" It is your priesthood. You are not alone, as Jesus has made us part of a great family of priests. You see a priest was to be an intercessor between God and man. By praying, you are. By listening, you are. By showing compassion, you are. You are the Jesus that He sends in that situation to represent Him. It's called love, and greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another. In other words, put them before you and your needs.
My friend Father Al reminds me of this when I see him in action, or even not in action. The love of the lord is in Him, and guides his steps. Does the Lord guide yours? Let's pray, it's easy. Lord-I need you. Use me today to show others what you have done in my life. Help me be patient, loving and compassionate, giving hope where there is none. By your spirit, Amen.
And you can pray for others silently! But now that they know you are a Christian, will expect it of you. Don't let them down. Follow Jesus, and watch the priesthood grow! Where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. the freedom to be yourself.
Just think, someone might want to be like you someday! Make that someone they see Jesus!
love with compassion,
Mike