Today, Nascar Powers

TODAY, NASCAR POWERS past most sports with its popularity and fanatical fans. But until the 1979 Daytona 500, auto racing found most of its supporters in the South. That year CBS broadcast the “Great American Race” live. It marked the first time a Winston Cup race was on TV from start to finish.

Dale Earnhardt made his first start at Daytona, but legendary drivers Cale Yarborough, Donnie Allison, Bobby Allison, A. J. Foyt, Richard Petty, and Darrell Waltrip made history.

Heading into the final lap, Donnie Allison held a slight lead over Yarborough. On the Superstretch, Yarborough went low to slingshot past Donnie. Not about to let Yarborough make one of his textbook passes, Donnie steered low to block. The two cars banged fenders and crashed into the outside wall at turn three before sliding down into the infield.

Meanwhile, Foyt, Petty, and Waltrip watched the action from about a half lap back. Foyt eased up when he saw the caution flag, allowing Petty and Waltrip to dust him. Petty hung on in the final couple of turns to claim his sixth Daytona 500 victory.

Even though the race was decided, the highlights continued. Yarborough and Donnie Allison jumped out of their cars and started pushing each other. Soon Bobby Allison joined the fray as national TV cameras caught the fight live.

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POINT What is it about fights that makes everybody stop and watch? Have you seen a fight at school where students gathered around the combatants and egged them on? The fight between Cale Yarborough and the Allison brothers during the first televised NASCAR race caught the nation’s attention.

While humans seem to like to watch people fight, the Bible isn’t so big on the idea. As Christians we’re encouraged not to fight. Instead we should try to live at peace with all people. With God in our life, we can have peace in our heart. And that contentment should be evident to everybody.

GOAL! If somebody tried to pick a fight with you, what would you do? Before a conflict arises, decide to have the courage to walk away. Ask God to give you the wisdom to live at peace with all people.