The FREEDOM TOUR is surrounded by an amazing team – a beautiful collection of individuals from diverse backgrounds with widely different ability levels.
As we wrap last year and prepare for 2022, I’m reviewing stuff. I noticed a couple of traits shared by this remarkable circle of volunteers and cyclists.
They’re Committed
Our team shows up. That might sound simple, but it’s a big deal. Lots of people talk about their concerns, about doing big things. They talk about faith and following Jesus.
Our community follows through. They do the big and small things, the fun things and the tough things. They sweat and sacrifice.
The FREEDOM TOUR is a beautiful picture of what James describes as faith and actions working together, how what we do makes faith complete.
They Focus On The Journey
They know joy is found along the road. They’ve learned to stop and appreciate the people and beauty they encounter. Thy know the miles matter more than the finish line.
By riding together one-mile-at-a-time, by savoring and sharing the journey, they create another bit of magic.
The group celebration at the finish line becomes even sweeter.
They Don’t Complain
Maybe you’ve noticed – I work hard at making our events look fun. I intentionally post pictures of big smiles and beautiful routes. But I’m sure you realize it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.
Cycling long distances is hard. Training helps a lot, but it’s hard. Period.
Our team doesn’t hide the struggle, they share it. There’s a sense of being in it together. And something about knowing they’re not alone, knowing they’re writing a big story together, that transcends momentary pain and makes it worthwhile.
Of course they get tired and grumpy. And no matter how carefully we prepare, things go wrong. Bad weather, bike issues, road construction, injuries – they’re inevitable.
But here’s what I’ve learned: when people come together around Jesus, when they’re committed to seeking justice, when they’re willing to work together and trust Him, some pretty amazing things can occur.
There’s no limit to what can be accomplished by a group of committed, passionate people when they work together and trust Jesus for the outcome.