Guest post by J.J. LeVan
Dear Road Warrior,
A group of us curved our Harley-Davidsons through the hills of Tennessee on a driving adventure known as the “Tail of the Dragon.” Hot, tired, and hungry, we took a lunch break at the end of the trail.
Amidst hundreds of other sweaty travelers in a giant parking lot, we noticed a stout lady trying to load herself on the back of a touring bike. Her wee, squirrely husband wriggled to balance their motorcycle while seasoned bikers from all around the group glanced at their fragility. The couple slowly began to head out of the parking lot and maneuver up a small ridge to resume their ride. But just as the bike crested the road, it began to tip. Teetering, the driver slammed his feet down, but it was too late.
As the bike dropped, I saw one of the most beautiful things I’d ever seen. In one sweeping motion, the entire crowd tilted toward the couple and simultaneously walked in their direction. Almost the second the two found themselves on the ground, those rough-looking bikers were at their side and all but caught them before they hit the pavement.
Immediately, several men lifted them back upright, taking care to make sure that they were okay. After a little encouragement from those nearby, Big Mama and Squirrelly rolled out to cheers from their community and carefully headed back down the mountain path.
I couldn’t help but think of our Caring Community. We are a similar kind of Road Warrior.
From the teetering and tilting to the lifting and launching of our struggling travelers on their best path forward, we are warriors together. Our feet move, our hands reach out swiftly, and we cheer them on when we see their smallest victories.
Caregivers have been given the opportunity to literally be the hands and feet of Christ every day. And though we may be weary and though we may forget, that truly is the most beautiful thing.
Make sure you don’t take things for granted and go slack in working for the common good; share what you have with others. God takes particular pleasure in acts of worship—a different kind of “sacrifice”—that take place in kitchen and workplace and on the streets.
Hebrews 13:16 MSG
Jonna J. LeVan is a wife and mother to a blended family of 5 young adults. Finding her house (mostly) empty-nested, she felt led to become an Autism Writer, as everything she writes is touched by autism. She also works as an Independent Provider for the State of Ohio, assisting people with special needs.
Tracy Crump dispenses hope in her award-winning book, Health, Healing, and Wholeness: Devotions of Hope in the Midst of Illness (CrossLink Publishing, 2021). A former intensive care nurse, she cared for her parents and her mother-in-law and understands both the burdens and joys of caregiving. Her devotions have been featured in Guideposts books, The Upper Room, and many other publications, and she has contributed 22 stories to Chicken Soup for the Soul® books. She also conducts writing workshops, edits a newsletter for writers, and does freelance editing. But her most important job is Grandma to five completely unspoiled grandchildren.
What an encouraging post, JJ. I love your perspective!
Thank you, Tracy!
Encouraging post about taking care of each other in any circumstance.
That’s right, Janis. We’re the body of Christ.
Thank you, Janis!
“From the teetering and tilting to the lifting and launching of our struggling travelers on their best path forward, we are warriors together.” What a perfect description, Jonna. I love this. Thank you.
I love it,too, Diana!
It was amazing to see the crowd move into action. I wish I could have captured it for a highlight reel.
I love the compassion of the bikers. Yes, we are the hands and feet of Christ.
Amen, Mary Ann!
Mary Ann, I grew up on a farm and have entertained a much different view of bikers. (That was long before I became a backseat rider of our iron pony.) We have met the nicest people while traveling. They check on one another, tell perfect strangers to, “be safe,” and stop to help if they see another struggling on the side of the road.