June 27 - End of the Road: Iconic Route 66 Decertified
Savoring the Sacred in Life's Journey
This is the day U.S. Route 66, the iconic "Mother Road" connecting Chicago to Los Angeles, was officially decommissioned in 1985.
In today's lesson, a surprising piece of American history will take us on an unexpected spiritual journey. Get ready to discover how an iconic symbol of the open road can teach us profound truths about navigating life's twists and turns with faith and purpose.
"You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." - Psalm 16:11 (NIV)
This Date in History
The advent of the automobile in the early 20th century revolutionized American transportation, but the nation's roads were not prepared for this change. Prior to the 1920s, most roads were dirt or gravel, and long-distance travel was difficult and sometimes hazardous. The roads that did exist were often maintained by local governments or private turnpike companies, resulting in a disjointed and inconsistent network.
In 1921, the Federal Highway Act was passed, which provided federal aid to states for road construction and maintenance. This marked the beginning of a coordinated effort to create a national highway system. However, the routes were still not standardized or consistently numbered.
Enter Cyrus Avery, an Oklahoma businessman and proponent of good roads. Avery saw the need for a route that would connect the main streets of rural America, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles. He believed that such a road would promote economic development and provide a much-needed boost to the communities it passed through.
Avery's vision became a reality in 1926 with the creation of U.S. Route 66. The road was pieced together from existing state and local roads, following a roughly diagonal path from northeast to southwest. It was not the shortest route between Chicago and Los Angeles, but it was designed to connect as many small towns as possible.
Route 66 quickly became popular with travelers, especially during the Great Depression. Many Dust Bowl migrants traveled the road to California, seeking escape from the economically and environmentally devastated Great Plains. The road provided a lifeline for these migrants, offering hope and the promise of a better life.
As the country recovered from the Depression and World War II ended, Route 66 began to symbolize the spirit of adventure and freedom. The post-war economic boom saw a rise in automobile ownership and leisure travel. Route 66 became the embodiment of the American road trip, offering a chance to explore the country's heartland and experience its diverse landscapes and cultures.
The road's popularity was further enhanced by its frequent appearances in popular culture. John Steinbeck's 1939 novel "The Grapes of Wrath" immortalized Route 66 as the "Mother Road," a symbol of escape and hope during the Great Depression. In the 1960s, the TV series "Route 66" featured two young men traveling the road in a Corvette, encountering various adventures along the way. The song "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66," composed by Bobby Troup and first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1946, further cemented the road's status as a cultural icon.
Route 66's decline began with the advent of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s. These new, high-speed highways were designed to provide more efficient travel between cities, often bypassing the small towns that Route 66 served. As sections of the interstate were completed, corresponding sections of Route 66 were decommissioned.
The final blow came in 1985 when the last remaining stretch of Route 66 was bypassed by Interstate 40 in Arizona. On June 27, 1985, U.S. Route 66 was officially decommissioned, after 59 years of service.
Despite its official decommissioning, Route 66 continues to hold a special place in American culture. Much of the original road is still drivable, and many of the iconic landmarks and attractions along its path have been preserved. Today, Route 66 is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who want to experience a slice of American history and nostalgia.
Historical Context
The early 20th century saw a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization in the United States. The rise of mass production, particularly in the automotive industry, made cars more affordable and accessible to the average American. This, coupled with the increasing prosperity of the 1920s, fueled a growing demand for better roads and highways.
However, the Great Depression in the 1930s hit the nation hard. Unemployment soared, businesses failed, and many Americans found themselves in dire economic straits. The Dust Bowl, a series of severe dust storms caused by drought and unsustainable farming practices, devastated the Great Plains. This led to a mass migration of farmers and their families, many of whom traveled along Route 66 to California in search of work and a better life.
World War II brought a different kind of transformation. The war effort required the rapid movement of troops, equipment, and supplies across the country. Route 66, along with other highways, played a vital role in this logistical challenge. After the war, the nation experienced a boom in economic growth and consumer spending. The automobile became a symbol of freedom and prosperity, and leisure travel grew in popularity.
The 1950s and 1960s were marked by significant social and cultural changes. The Civil Rights Movement gained momentum, challenging racial segregation and discrimination. The counter-culture movement of the 1960s rejected traditional values and embraced a more free-spirited lifestyle. Route 66, with its promise of adventure and freedom, became a symbol of this restless, exploratory spirit.
Did You Know?
In the 1930s, during the height of the Dust Bowl migration, many gas stations and other businesses along Route 66 would offer free water, food, and shelter to travelers who couldn't afford to pay.
Today’s Reflection
The decommissioning of Route 66 in 1985 marked the end of an era, but its legacy continues to inspire and captivate. What made this highway truly special wasn't its endpoints of Chicago and Los Angeles, but the rich tapestry of experiences it offered along the way. Travelers embarked on this path to immerse themselves in the adventure of the open road, encountering diverse landscapes, quirky roadside attractions, unique small towns, and people from all walks of life. These elements became an integral part of the Route 66 journey, transforming a simple road trip into an iconic American experience.
This historic road offers us a powerful metaphor for our spiritual journey through life. As Christians, we often focus on our ultimate destination—eternal life with God. But just as Route 66 was about more than reaching California or Chicago, our earthly lives are about more than simply arriving in heaven.
"You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." - Psalm 16:11 (NIV). This verse reminds us that God doesn't just wait for us at the end of our journey; He walks with us, filling our lives with His presence and joy along the way.
Think about your life as a road trip on Route 66. There are smooth stretches where everything seems to be going right—your career is thriving, your relationships are strong, your faith feels unshakable. These are like the scenic vistas and welcoming diners along the highway. Savor these moments. Recognize God's blessings and give thanks for them.
But then there are the challenging parts—unexpected detours, rough patches of road, maybe even a breakdown. In life, these might be health issues, financial struggles, or crises of faith. It's tempting to view these as obstacles to be overcome as quickly as possible. But what if, like a traveler on Route 66 facing a detour, we instead asked, "What might God be showing me here? What can I learn from this experience?"
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV). This doesn't mean God will remove all obstacles, but rather that He will guide us through them, often using these challenges to shape us and deepen our faith.
Just as Route 66 travelers found unexpected joys—a breathtaking sunset over the desert, a conversation with a local in a small-town diner—we too can find moments of grace in unlikely places. Maybe it's the kindness of a stranger during a difficult time, or a sudden moment of peace amidst chaos. These are God's signposts along our journey, reminding us of His presence and care.
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to fall into a "destination mindset," always looking ahead to the next goal or achievement. But the Route 66 of life invites us to slow down, to be present, to fully experience each moment—whether joyful or challenging—as part of our growth in faith.
This doesn't mean we ignore the difficulties or pain in life. Rather, it's about recognizing that every experience—good or bad—is an opportunity to connect with God, to grow in our faith, and to become more of who He created us to be. It's about finding meaning and purpose in every mile of our journey.
So, as you navigate the twists and turns of life, remember the spirit of Route 66. Embrace the journey with all its unexpected detours and scenic routes. Be open to the lessons, the growth, and the encounters with God that each experience offers. Find joy not just in reaching your destinations, but in the rich, full experience of traveling the road God has laid out for you.
After all, life in all its complexity—its joys and sorrows, its triumphs and challenges—is a gift from God. By savoring each moment and seeing the sacred in the every day, we can transform our earthly journey into a deep, ongoing conversation with our Creator. This journey prepares us for and gives us glimpses of the incomparable joy that awaits us in eternity with God, our true home and ultimate destination.
Practical Application
Take a "road trip" through your spiritual life. Reflect on the significant milestones, detours, and scenic routes that have shaped your faith journey. Journal about these experiences, considering how God has been present and what lessons you've learned along the way. Use this reflection to guide your prayers, thanking God for His faithfulness and asking for His continued direction as you navigate the path ahead.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank You for the journey of life and faith. Like the travelers on Route 66, we know that the path is not always smooth or straight, but we trust in Your constant presence and guidance. Help us to embrace the adventures, challenges, and opportunities You have for us along the way. Open our eyes to the beauty and blessings that surround us and help us to savor each moment as a chance to grow closer to You. Thank You for the ultimate destination of eternal life with You, but also for the joy and purpose You bring to our everyday journey. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Final Thoughts
The legacy of Route 66 endures as a powerful reminder that life's journey is as significant as its destination. While our ultimate goal as Christians is eternal life with God, our earthly path offers rich opportunities for growth, learning, and experiencing God's presence. As we navigate life's twists and turns, may we approach each day with the spirit of a Route 66 traveler - open to adventure, ready to find meaning in unexpected places, and eager to embrace the full spectrum of human experience. By savoring both the joys and challenges of our journey, we not only draw closer to God but also prepare ourselves for the incomparable joy of our final destination in His presence.
Community Engagement
Share your thoughts or use these questions to get the conversation started.
What is your favorite memory from a road trip you've taken? How does that experience relate to your spiritual journey?
In what ways has your faith journey been like a winding road? How have the twists and turns, detours, and unexpected stops shaped your relationship with God?
The Bible often uses the metaphor of a path or journey to describe the spiritual life. What other Biblical stories or passages come to mind that relate to this theme?
How can we cultivate a sense of adventure, openness, and trust in God as we navigate the journey of life and faith?
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In tomorrow's lesson, we'll explore how a simple act of faith can challenge long-held beliefs and open the door to transformative change. Get ready to discover the power of seeing the world through a new lens.
Great piece Jason. At 68 and drawing nearer the destination, I appreciate the encouragement to see each day of the journey as a blessing to be entrusted to God and enjoyed as His gift. The world has done a major disservice in trying to convince us that each day should be an “ultimate” in experience of the world’s attractions, far from God’s design. Jeremiah 6:16, Thus says the Lord: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’ Praying that God would let my eyes see where the good way is and to walk in it.
I have lived on the experience of this road in one way or another for 44years. Your historical portraits are quite colorful and insightful. This connection of the traveler to the experience spiritually & temporily is a great way to connect the mundane dots that never seem so mundane in the light of Him who is always in this pattern of travel with us. As I read this I am no less than three blocks from the subject of your sthdy today. Hard to quantify the hand of providene a road like Route 66 can have on towns like OKC. Your conection with Psalm 16 is particularly insightful. Look forward to tomorrow not just for the history but because history is His story!
Blessings brother!