Following on from my TFTD last week, but the time you are reading this, I will have hopefully completed the Ride Suffolk cycle ride. This cycle ride was previously called Suffolk Sunrise, and much as I enjoy an early morning pedal, getting up to start out at sunrise (5am) is not something I look forward to. Fortunately the start is now a much more convenient 8am.
The route takes us from Framlingham, through the country lanes of north Suffolk, through Laxfield, down to Wickham Market and to the very edge of Ipswich. There are some beautiful lanes, with wildflower hedgerows, country churches, and green fields.
One of the things I enjoy about this event is that although I will be taking part on my own, there are always fellow cyclists to chat with along the way. The route is well marked, and there is always someone cycling ahead or behind, so it is very difficult to get lost.
Willing volunteers provide much needed energy snacks and refuelling drinks at stops along the way, which also provide opportunities for a friendly mechanic to help with any bike problems that crop up.
Having completed the miles, there is always a good crowd to welcome you over the finish line back in Framlingham, with the chance to relax and reflect on the day’s efforts.
In our faith, do we sometimes avoid those early mornings? Never mind, the beauty of God’s creation is still there for us to wonder at.
We may feel we are travelling alone at times, but there are good people who have travelled the path before us, and we in turn can guide others as they travel behind us. God gives us well marked signposts to help us follow the route.
Do we share our stories of faith together? Do we “refuel” appropriately? Do we ask God to put right those things that hinder our journey?
It may be hard work travelling along that journey, but we will be rewarded at the finish line, with cheers and smiles, and arms open wide.