Bathtub Races

Luke 13:19 – It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew, and became a tree; and the birds of the air perched in its branches. (NIV)

Our community is renowned as "The Bathtub Racing Capital of the World".

The idea was conceived by one man in the late 1950s, and brought to fruition by several enthusiastic people, when the first Bathtub Race was launched for the 1967 Centennial Celebrations, spearheaded by Nanaimo's Mayor Frank Ney. It "put Nanaimo on the map", as they say, and helped in the Mayor's never-ending invitation to welcome people to his beautiful, beloved city, which he called "The Sunporch of Canada".

The earliest tub hulls were constructed mainly of wood, with a moulded fibreglass tub attached. Although many materials have been used through the years, advancing technology and innovative ideas have seen the "tub" fine-tuned to today's sleeker models. Strict regulations in design and construction must be adhered to.

It takes tremendous co-operation of volunteers to put on such an event, supported by the community, the Canadian Coast Guard, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Harbour Commission, and medical personnel. As well, each "bathtub" requires an escort boat.

I am reminded of an idea conceived by someone else, for a much different sort of "invitation" to welcome people from near and far to share in something beautiful and beloved to him, the Word of God. And so, six years ago today, Daily was launched on this Presbyterian website, from an idea conceived by the now Technical and Oversight Editor. Starting with a small bevy of writers and readership, and one editor who did everything, Daily has grown to encompass a Submissions Editor, a Devotional Editor, a Technical and Oversight Editor, a Subscription and Feedback Editor, over 200 writers, a readership of nearly 4,000 subscribers, a PrayerLine, and a counsellor. It has also been "fine-tuned" to include music.

This is all done through the co-operation of volunteers who believe in spreading the Word. Perhaps, one might say, placing The Son on everyone's porch — Daily!

Prayer: We give our thanks to You, Lord, for whispering words of inspiration, for guiding us all in our dedication, and most of all, for supplying us so freely with proof of Your presence in our ordinary, everyday lives. It is to You, and through You, we offer our thanks. Amen.