Two Wheels Toward Heaven
Riding down the highway on two wheels gives us a sense of freedom. Some people get it with a convertible. Others get that sense just driving fast. But for weirdos like D.A. and me, who love riding motorcycles, our freedom is on the open road riding on two wheels.
Leaning into the curves is an awesome sensation in itself. But when we’re in the mountains, riding through the twisty, curvy, switchback roads, not only are the roads beautiful, but the scenery around us is nearly indescribable.
Yet for us, it’s also so much more than the scenery. I consider the scenery and the enjoyment of the curvy roads a bonus, really. Because when we go out on the road, it’s more than a pleasure ride. It’s a ministry.
We believe we get the best of both worlds. We get to ride motorcycles and we get to tell people about Jesus. It may sound crazy, and not everyone is cut out for it, but this is what God has called us to do… so we do it.
I realize that many people who see us out on the road don’t understand the concept of the casket. I also realize that many of those who don’t “get it” will never hear why we do it. Because many of these people pass us on the highway, give us a strange look, shake their heads, and drive on.
However, a few of those people end up stopping at the same gas station, or restaurant that we do, and we get to talk to them and explain why we pull a casket. Still, even with an explanation, some get it and some don’t. But we have come to the conclusion that the ones we actually get to speak to are the ones that God has scheduled a Divine Appointment for us with.
Riding in the mountains, we still run into many people, including other bikers. This is what we ride for. They approach us, we talk, we laugh, we hand them pictures, we let them take pictures, then we all ride our separate ways.
Still, it’s not just about riding in the mountains either. Because right here at home we get to do the same thing that we do in the mountains. Our favorite hang-out is Sonic. It is usually there that someone approaches us and asks, “What’s the casket all about?” and D.A. gets to take them over and give them a tour.
One at a time. This is how it’s done. One person at a time, two wheels toward heaven each time. Although I have my own bike now and ride along once in a while this way with D.A. it doesn’t take away from the effect of the ministry. Because while the casket draws people to us, God decides which ones D.A. ministers to, and which ones I minister to. Our ministries have merged.
Often times he will start a conversation, then the person will turn and address me and I finish the conversation. Other times it’s solely D.A., or solely me. Then other times we each get someone to talk to. We never know, yet we make sure we’re always prepared. It’s almost like a game.
Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. ~ 1 Peter 3:15, NLT (emphasis added)
I say that because it’s really awesome how the Holy Spirit works in these situations. D.A. always gives a picture of our bike and casket to people. But sometimes when I’m talking with a woman, she will say something to me that the Holy Spirit says, “You have a connection here. Give her a pair of mismatched socks.” So I do, and to see her face light up as she understands the concept of the socks is priceless.
Two wheels toward Heaven. It’s a journey. It’s a ministry. It’s life. One day we’ll ride through that tunnel and come out on the brighter side. I hope you’ll be there, too.
