After a rousing worship service on Sunday and some reading later into the night, I slept in on Monday morning until 8:30 a.m. I couldn't believe I slept that late but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise after the events of my day today.
After reading, journaling and praying this morning I decided to take my bike back on the Parkway ride from a previous destination, Sleepy Gap Overlook, elevation 2930 feet up to the top of Mount Pisgah. I passed through 7 tunnels on my way to the top. I about bit off more than I could handle! Though it was only eleven miles to the top the elevation topped out at around 5,000 feet. It took me 1 hour and 20 minutes to go 11.2 miles up and it only took 30 minutes to come down! I was one tired puppy when I got back to my car to load up my bike. It's amazing what uphill climbs at higher elevations will do to you! Suck the wind right out of your lungs! Now, I can say I did it! Still, I'm not ready to ride with Lance or Floyd, either one!
This evening I rode with Pastor's Raul and Lydia to dinner prepared at the home of Jim and Patricia and her two children, Aranzasu and Edgar. Also joining us at the table was Patricia's brother, Miguel. We ate dinner and all talked together until near 10:00 p.m. Jim and Patricia have been married just 6 months. They are expecting their first child in December. They are very excited! Miguel is a single father of two children, 7 and 4 years. He has been a follower of Jesus for about 2 years and he spoke with me candidly about his life and the new direction that he has found and is seeking with Jesus. As is true for many in this economy, Miguel while working in a factory currently, having lost his construction job, is seeking God's will for his life.
Tomorrow evening I'm invited to dinner with yet another family. While tonight's offering was Mexican, tomorrows is from Argentina, and I'm told I'm in for a real treat. I haven't had a bad meal yet! Gotta keep pedaling though, eating way too much!
Tomorrow I'm planning on a matinee viewing of "Angels and Demons." If I get there I'll be sure to provide a review as promised. Salaam and Shalom!
Dad you totally rock! WOO HOO! I can't imagine how amazing it felt to make it to the top! I am also so glad that you are resting.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking this morning about the picture close to your office of the pastor with his head down and Jesus is washing his feet -- Rest servant of our almighty God, let Him continue to guide you through new worship experiences, let him continue to bless you with physical accomplishment, let Him continue to refresh you, let Him fill your belly with the kind generosity of others and your heart with abundant love being given so freely to you, let Him continue to nurture every single part of you.
I am so proud that you are my father.
Love ya- you really do totally rock! -Kirsten
I have not paid my daughter any money to say these very kind words about her father! Kirsten- you are an ever-blooming woman of God! I am being blessed in my spirit by the worship of God that I'm blessed to share with my Latino sisters and brothers!
ReplyDelete