Michael McDowell

Driver :: NASCAR

 

The way I came to know Christ as my personal Savior was a unique one. I did not grow up in a religious family; I never went to church for anything other than weddings and funerals. I always felt God’s presence, but I never knew what it meant.

After I met my wife, Jami, we started spending time with her Uncle Deano and Aunt Kym; they were fun to be around and they invited us to their Church a few times. I really didn’t put much energy into it though. During this time, I was working hard trying to make it in Formula Cars. I had no money, so I spent a lot of time coaching kids and adults in go-karts. I worked for Ron Huber, who was a great man of faith. Ron was a big part of motorsports ministries and was heavily involved with other great organizations.

I spent a lot of time with his grandson Andrew; we would go to the track every week and I would mentor him. Ron put a lot of trust in me. He was a great friend of mine as well as an employer. I always thought Ron was very special person who treated his family, friends and employees with love and integrity. I remember always thinking there is something special about this man, and it was his love to serve and honor God. At Ron’s funeral, another close friend, employer, and man of faith, Tom Barnett, really challenged me about my life.

He asked me if I thought Ron was in heaven, and I obviously said yes. Then, he asked me if I was to die today would I go to heaven? I paused; I really didn’t know. I started evaluating my lifestyle, my heart, and what I really wanted to be. Shortly after this, my wife and I were at a Church with Jami’s aunt and uncle again. The pastor was speaking about forgiveness and second chances. I thought to myself, man that would be nice, a second chance to have all my sins forgiven and start a new life; so I made the decision to turn my life over to Christ.

My faith has brought me through a lot of struggles and times of rejoicing. I now know that God has a plan for me, my career and my family.

Content provided by ministry partner Motor Racing Outreach.

 

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