I don’t think I could have ever imagined the personal journey that this bike ministry would take me on. First of all, I still find it overwhelming that I could answer a call that I received over 15 years ago.
And how blessed I have been to witness Christ's love and power through the miracles and relationships that continue to develop when we say “YES”. I know I have not only experienced the spiritual growth that occurs when we answer the call, but I have read stories and heard testimony of others who have answered HIS call. But I don’t think I had ever considered that maybe there can be more than ONE calling. I mean, isn’t one enough? Haven’t I earned my place in heaven, LORD? Aren’t you done with me? Well, I’ve come to learn that the answers to these questions are no, no, and NO!
The truth of the matter is that we are called constantly. Sometimes in simple ways, like when he asks us to be cheerful in our daily events to be a constant expression of his joy and love to all whom we meet. Sometimes in larger ways such as starting a ministry or devoting more of your life to serve him. And we don’t EARN our place in heaven. I learned that Jesus died FOR us on the cross, but it is our responsibility to glorify him through our good works! And lastly, he is NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER DONE WITH US!!
So, where was I going with all of this, and what does it mean for Link-UP? Well in short, I really felt like Link-Up was going to be it for me. I thought I would continue to grow this ministry to it’s full potential as I continue to believe that this is only the beginning. But I know so little and God knows ALL, and apparently not only is this just the beginning for our amazing ministry, but this is only the beginning of my life of service. I think of it as a stepping stone to what is next.
So what's next? Well, it has become crystal clear to me that my next step is to pursue a degree in applied ministry, then follow up with my masters in chaplaincy (I’m just as shocked as anyone!). In spite of all of my efforts in convincing my family and peers that a career in ministry is not for me and the bike ministry is enough, God has made it clear for me that I have more to do, but that will include completion of the required academic degrees.
In case you haven’t guessed it by now, I will no longer be able to fully commit myself to manage the Link-Up Bike Ministry. This has been a difficult decision for me as I completely love where this ministry has taken us and it is beginning to grow! So who’s gonna be the new bike ministry guy? Well, God took care of that too! By “coincidence” I have been blessed to have crossed paths with Pastor Matt Whisenhunt.
Pastor Matt serves as the director of the Harbor and Bridge ministry which is supported by Strongsville UMC. Harbor and Bridge offers resources to help shape a community in need. Aside from his love for Jesus and working within the community, Pastor Matt also shares my enthusiasm for bikes! I could not have planned this better. This is yet another example of God's plans far exceeding my biggest dreams.
Where do we go from here? I still plan on being involved as much as I can, but mostly as a volunteer. We would welcome a few more regular volunteers to form a steering committee of sorts to work alongside Pastor Matt to ensure that he receives any support that he may need.
If anyone is interested in getting more involved in a ministry that I can promise will enhance your Christian journey, you can email us at linkupbikeministry@gmail.com or call the church office at 440.331.7676 if you don’t have email access.