First Annual HCC Fall Ride – Success!
With sixteen bikes of varying types, single riders, passengers, and ecumenical diversity, our first ride was a great example of what “the church” should look like! Regardless church of record, manufacturer of bikes, color of bike, style of bike, or age of rider, we all love the same thing and are united because of that. That love for the open road can be likened to our love for Christ as the head of the church. A common love for the road and riding brought us together for this ride, and a love of Christ – the head of the church – brings us together as Christians. Just as we rode together with different makes of bikes, so the church works together with a mix of people and gifts. We don’t all have to look the same, act the same, and do the same things to be critical to the function of the church body. I hope that this annual ride continues to provide a metaphor for the body of Christ, welcoming all gifts, and ministering to those not yet part of the body.
Our ride began at Highland Community Church in Wausau, WI at 13:00, Sunday Sept 21st. Our ride took us to Merrill, WI.. then along Hwy 107 to Tomahawk, WI. Our route then took us over several country roads around small lakes and beautiful autumn scenery through Harrison Hills to Hwy 17 and then on to Rhinelander, WI. We stopped there and had a takeout dinner at Culver’s.
We sat on the grass and ate our food as we chatted about the ride so far, getting to know one another and fellowshipping. We then had a short devotional on Peter’s walk on the water called “Get out of the Boat”. Basically, this talk outlined the idea that while we make fun of Peter sinking while losing faith, there were 11 other guys just sitting in the boat. Christ isn’t in the boat, He’s out on the water. Jump in and start walking toward Christ. The boat feels safe, but if you aren’t making tracks toward Christ, safe just isn’t good enough. Take the next step and get your feet wet.
We returned through Tomahawk along Hwy 8 and 107 to Merrill, and then back to Wausau. 160 miles, great scenery, great company, fellowship, and a desire to make it a yearly event… we call that a success! Here are some pictures to show you the group and the ride.
Our Group in the Highland Parking lot ready to leave
Mr. Mitch Cooper with our Safety Briefing
