Written by: Rolff Christensen
Today, as we rode from Woodinvillle to Skykomish, WA, my chain caught between the top sprocket on my bike cassette and my wheel, destroying three spokes. Within minutes, a support vehicle (driven by Jessica) rescued me from a narrow road shoulder to ferry me safely to our next overnight—the Masonic Lodge in bustling Skykomish (pop. 198). Within minutes after riding in safely to their destination, our bicycle mechanics (Matt, Ben, and Connor) set to work on repairing my damaged metal steed. Unfortunately, without the necessary parts, even these “Rag Men” (see this morning’s devotion: Walter Wangerin, Jr.’s “The Rag Man’s Story”) could not get me ready to ride tomorrow. One of our group members has already offered me to ride her bicycle the day after tomorrow, from Sunnyslope to Wilbur, WA (ninety-six miles). She’s already done this section; so, I wonder if she knows something I don’t?
As is obvious from the above, this group of riders and support crew are extraordinary in their thoughtfulness and consideration of others’ needs before their own—kind of reminds me of Someone I’ve come to know, love, and worship. Perhaps it is this attitude of wanting to help others that has drawn this group of disparate individuals together from all parts of the U.S. and Scotland. We truly are riding for a larger purpose than our own enjoyment—we are riding to help bring quality housing to those without.
Even though I may not be riding for a few days, I consider it a huge blessing to be on this trip at all. In the past twenty-two months, I’ve nearly died three times—twice from medical incidents, and once from an accident. I’ve also suffered a couple of strokes. God has granted me a 100% return to good health from all of this. So, whether I ride my bike, or assist with the support crew, it is my privilege to be with The Fuller Center for Housing Bike Adventure through the end of segment one in Kellogg, ID.
