By Paul Rouse
Our ride today took us 50 miles from Cedartown, GA to Anniston, AL. It was very cold this morning, 40 degrees overnight and about 45 when we got on our bikes. But it was sunny and there was no wind. It was not long before I had to start taking off layers of my biking “kit” – first my jacket, then my long pants and heavy socks. This was contrast number one, cold morning to a beautiful sunny afternoon.
Now for the second contrast.
I learned last night that Cedartown sits in one of the poorest counties in Georgia. It had been prosperous at one time, with a number of local industries. But as manufacturing moved overseas, the local economy declined.
Our host church tonight includes a beautiful stone and wood sanctuary that was built in 1890 by a successful business man who built it to serve the many workers he had brought over from Europe. Beautiful stained glass windows, ornate wood carvings and huge wooden beams. As I toured the chapel, I thought about the poverty back in Cedartown and probably here in Anniston as well.
I am not saying there is anything wrong with churches or beautiful old church buildings. These old churches were built to honor God and also to reach out to and serve the local people. And many still do. Today, our host church has a number of outreach efforts, including a free clinic that helps serve the medical needs of the local population.
It’s just that the contrast made me stop and reflect. And perhaps reflection is a good thing.
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