Mike and I went for a ride on the motorcycle one day. It was a beautiful day—hot and yet perfect. I am always amazed at the temperature changes when we pass a stream or just turn a curve. I do not understand air currents—Mike does because he was a pilot but I do not, I just enjoy it.
While we were riding Mike rested his left arm on my knee and leaned back into me. I love it when he does that. No idea why just a warm, fuzzy, united feeling. This time, however, I heard the Lord say. “I love it when you lean into Me.”
There are so many circumstances in life where I need to lean into Him and instead I try to drive the bike. I cannot. It is physically impossible. I am not strong enough. I am not coordinated enough. It is ridiculous to even try. So why do I?
All of life is like a motorcycle ride. The changes in scenery, temperature, smells, elevation and sounds are so much like our daily walk with Christ. We are just along for the ride. If we try to do the driving it is disastrous. We can lean forward into Him for protection from the bugs, the weather, the road dirt and anything else that comes along. Or, we can sit tall, see everything around us and enjoy the force of the wind, the changes in air temperature, the sights and smells. He is totally relaxed and if we allow He will affectionately rest an arm on our knee just to let us know He loves us. When He leans back it is to not only show us the affection He has for us but to allow us to draw from His strength, His power, His love.
When Mike and I ride I am never nervous, never scared—just totally relaxed. I do laugh most of the time. In fact, I get embarrassed because I cannot quit laughing. I get so much pleasure from sitting on the back of that bike with him I don’t even have anything to compare it to.
Do I enjoy my ride with God that much? Not always. I do not laugh through a lot of life. Why? It is all temporary anyway. Do I have to understand it all? No, just like I do not get air currents. I just enjoy the changes. What is there today that should be able to steal the sheer delight and enjoyment of my ride through life with God? Nothing. How about you?
Nehemiah 8:10 NIV Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”