The Apostle Paul states that he has become all things to all men so that the gospel of Jesus Christ shall go forth. Good advice, and advice that should be taken in our daily relationships with all. In other words, know your audience. And at this time of year, when I attend parties and functions where we only meet once a year, an economy of words can make the time spent together more valuable. An analogy that Ken reminded me of the other day was how can I pack so light for a trip? My response was how can you take so many things you will never use? So I find the same dilemma when talking to others.
When asked about our trip this year, I tell them 8800 miles. But not to all, for if you never have exceeded the county line, you have no idea what 8800 mile is all about. Or how little it is over 30 days. Less than 300 miles per day-do the math, and in an 8 hour day of riding that is less than 40 mph. When put in those terms, I travel more miles, see more things, and go faster than they do on their commute. Now, how far is 8800 miles really?
We were in 21 states. True, in the west you have larger states to deal with, but riding a 300 mile day in New England can take you through six states, while heading north from LA only takes you to Monterrey. Suddenly, 21 states is no big deal. 30 days? How can you spend 30 days on the road? How can you not? So many roads, so many great places to eat, so much history, so much beauty, and so much time to spend with my wife while riding. A key ingredient-for if you don't ride with a best friend, one who rides like you do, 30 miles can seem like 30 days. So I advise ride your own ride. Don't try to keep up. I won't. And remember that 300 miles per day is still done one mile at a time. Or for you faster guys, a 1/4 mile at a time!
Theresa took over 6000 pictures this time. Now based on days, that figures to 200 pictures per day. I love reviewing them with her at the end of the day, and asking "where did you take that one?" for her view from the back is more encompassing than mine, and on the same trip, on the same route, she may have a much different outlook and adventure. Same bike, same roads, same stats, yet her view of the trip may differ than mine. Not better or worse, just different. It's that personal.
That is why the Holy Spirit is so important in our lives. And why a personal relationship with Jesus beats anything religion has to offer. True, Jesus tells us He is the way, but listen to each of our testimonies, they are all different, and unique to us. But we all end up with Jesus as the destination. So let the spirit guide your words when sharing, or even just visiting. Reach out to the person, like Christ did and does to you. Jesus came down to our level, we didn't have to meet certain criteria to be accepted. Anyone who tells you different is of a different gospel-not of the Lord's. And when two Christians get together and share, we are blessed to see a different view of Christ. An infinite, all knowing, ever present, all loving God knows that, and with that much to offer, makes it available to all. Because we are all created as individuals, right down to our fingerprints. Different, but the same. The same, but unique to God and how He made us. A way in that He can brag about all His glory, in all His people. It's that personal.
Today let God allow you to be the person He wants you to be. And don't harness Him from making you all you can be. If you ride 300, try 500. 21 states? We have 50! 30 days? Did you realize riding every weekend is 104 days-over 3 months? It's just how you plan it. You have every day to explore the things God has for you. It is only your decision to limit them. And to limit sharing them with others. Spend time with the infinite God who created the universe. For OUR pleasure. Let Him show it off, and enjoy time with Him. Theresa may have taken 6000 pictures, which seems like a lot, God has no end to the sights and sounds He has to show you.
Maybe Ken didn't pack too much, his trip was just too short. And when eternity is involved, our days do seem shorter. Make the best of each one. And share them with others. And let them share with you. Someone cared enough about you to tell you about Jesus. Keep it going. There may be someone at that restaurant who just needs a little love. Someone to listen. Who has questions about where they are going, and needs direction. His map may not include Jesus. Paul was all things to all men, so can you. Add travel advisor to your resume, and tell them about your trip-your testimony. They may just be looking for a good reason to ride a 300 mile day, and just looking for the person to ride it with.
Or if you are that person, find one of us and ask. Jesus Christ-more than a vacation that will come to an end. He is eternity, with roads that don't appear on any map. He has to show you where they are. But you need to know Him first. Now, isn't that worth inviting Him along and into your life? I don't know about you, but I have a lot of catching up to do. It's that personal. Let's ride!
love with compassion,
Mike
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