The 2010 movie “Unstoppable” was inspired by a real life incident. In 2001, a runaway train ultimately traveled 66 miles (106 km) through northwest Ohio. Due to human error, the train left the rail yard with no one at the controls. This was due to the conductor mistakenly setting the train’s braking system. His error was putting the train on “full throttle” when he thought it was on “full brakes”. The train then took off.
The problem was further complicated by the fact that two of the train’s tank cars contained thousands of gallons of molten phenol, a toxic ingredient of paints and dyes harmful when it is inhaled, ingested, or brought into contact with the skin. One of the initial suggestions was to derail the train using a portable derailed but that failed. Then police tried shooting out the fuel release valve on the locomotive but instead hit the fuel cap. For two frightening hours the train traveled at speeds up to 51 miles per hour (82 km/h).
Finally, the crew of a second train coupled onto the runaway and slowly applied its brakes. After the train slowed down significantly, train master Jon Hosfeld ran alongside the train and climbed aboard, shutting down the locomotive. The train was stopped just southeast of Kenton, Ohio.
This reminds me of our lives. Sometimes we’re running away out off control with dangerous cargo and derailing our life will inevitably lead to the harm of others. We need to take time to let God take control before we harm others.
Read:
Read and meditate on Ephesians 4:31-32. What does this verse tell you?
Pray:
What in your life can cause you to careen out of control? What could happen if you don’t let God take control?
Meditate / Make It Real:
What measures or what will you do to to avoid / stop going “full throttle” in the wrong direction? What brother can you call to help you?
