Independence Day

I did my own alternative Independence Day celebration yesterday.

No fireworks or hot dogs or flag waving. You probably won’t be surprised that it involved riding my bike or that it was about independence for the kids at the Home of Hope.

This picture is a spot in the foothills called Horsetooth Mountain Park. It’s the farthest I’ve ever journeyed into the hills because it involves three significant climbs. I’ve done the first two several times, but the last one is the steepest. Honestly, I’ve been afraid to try it.

Yesterday I decided to face my fear and do something sacrificial for the kids. I wanted to celebrate their independence. So I did the first two climbs, descended into a small community, and confronted this hill I’ve avoided for so many years.

I’m not all that competitive. Climbing hills and riding miles just to say I’ve accomplished it doesn’t mean much to me. But doing it for a cause is something different.

So I climbed that last hill and flagged someone down to take my photo.

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My sense is that slowly, a few people at a time are catching the vision of what the FREEDOM TOUR is about. Folks are stepping into the circle and wondering what they can do.

Some ride bikes and climb hills. Some write checks. Some cut up apples and fill water bottles. And I believe Jesus uses all of it, every bit of effort put forth toward this cause, in ways far beyond what we understand.

Thank you for being part of the journey.

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