Against the wind…that was how this 9th Annual Cycle of Service will be remembered. Instead of a tail wind giving us a little push we face a strong 10mph headwind slowing us down and making the journey more challenging than it already is. And we still ride.
Day 1 of COS is in the books and we successfully made it to Selma with no issues. Sore, wind burned, but in great spirits.
One story from today was at our very first rest stop in Bellamy. Stopping at a little service station, it is the only gas station between Cuba, AL. and Demopolis therefore fairly busy. A gentlemen began asking several questions about what we are doing. He commented that he recalls seeing a group like us last year-which we told him it could have been us. After a few more questions, we discovered he was a student at Alabama State in 1971 and working in the area locally. Learning his degree was in Psychology, we asked him if he thought we were just a little crazy 😊. His laughter was warm as he inquired about the ministry of ARM and why we would make such a commitment. These are the moments I love so much.
As he prepared to leave, with genuine enthusiasm, he said he would be praying for us-from roof rack to our tires 😊. Taking it a step further, I asked if he would pray over our group. Excitement exploded over his face and he boldly stepped over and began praying. Beautiful. His prayer captured the essence of the protection, encouragement, and joy we needed to succeed. He recognized the power the wind was playing upon us and asked God to ease it-yes, much appreciated. Radiating with warmth, it just felt good for this servant who seemed like a random stranger was actually a member of God’s family.
What great joy!
We are so grateful for the outpouring of hospitality we received- the incredible breakfast from the Mennonites, lunch provide by Demopolis UMC, a rest stop sponsor by Marion UMC, the 122nd Troop Support Group out of Selma who allowed us to use their showers, and our long time friends at Memorial UMC who fed us and gave us a place to sleep. It is a special joy and we could not do this without or partners.
We have raised $19,787 towards our goal of $25,000
Looking forward to what we will learn on Day 2!