Route 66 - Pt 3

Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 ESV).

Continuing to the west on our road trip across Route 66, we come to a little unincorporated town, Fanning, Missouri. We can find the world’s second-largest rocking chair, at least according to the Guinness World Record Book. This giant rocking chair used to be the largest rocker in the world; now it's been demoted to the second largest. Casey, Illinois stole Fanning's thunder by building an even large one, a 56.5-foot tall giant. Despite it being the second largest, it’s still a whopping 42 feet tall. Sam Vitali owned a General Store on the south side of the tracks, but when Route 66 was paved through town in 1930, he relocated on the north side of the new highway. Next to it, Mary Vitali's brogher, Joe Bacialli built his Speedway Garage gas station which later became a tavern, Joe's Place. Sam passed away in 1964 and Mary kept it open until 1972. The store was torn down in 1980 and the tavern which at one time was the Community building was closed. The Sanazaro's bought it and refurbished the old tavern as Fanning US 66 Outpost General Store. To attract those passing buy, Dan Sanazaro came up with the "World's Largest Rocking Chair." It still stands, attracting people to stop. When I read the story about this stop along the route, I was reminded of the practical proverb that “the grass is always greener on the other side.” You may have followed that philosophy at one time or another in your life. It is the embodiment of the statement that if we reach for something different, something greater, we’ll somehow step into a new, better life. It usually plays itself out in thoughts like: If I just find the perfect job, I’ll feel valuable. If I just exercise more, I’ll feel confident. If I just find the right home in the right neighborhood, I can begin to host my friends. The problem is that as I longingly fix my eyes on this “greener grass,” I make false assumptions about life. The only eternal fix for my life is in Christ. Contentment can only come through Christ. I remember years ago when I adopted a philosophy of not trying to “keep up with the Jones’”. Even if I could catch them, they’d just build a bigger rocking chair, and I’d be back to second. My joy must be in my position in Christ. I’m always first with Him. That’s true for all of us. He is the one who strengthens us, keeping us right where we belong. That’s the real victory!