Willow Creek – The Power of Open Spaces

I just learned about a group that meets at Willow Creek Community Church near Chicago consisting of motorcyclists.  Every Sunday when the weather is suitable, they ride to church, park in the same place, sit together, and then after the service go on a ride.

To those who haven’t ridden before, this might seem strange, even a little show over substance.  Let me tell you, it makes perfect sense.  My first thought was of the long motorcycle trip I took after being disability discharged from the Marines.  I was angry at the world, angry at God, disgusted with myself and stewing over what I thought was nothing but a bleak future.  My military career was over and in my mind, I was just a failure.

But the power of the open road seemed to release my spirit with each passing mile. Just the road, my motorcycle, and God’s creation, the miracle of our existence and the wonder to just be alive seemed to override all the pain I was still struggling to overcome.

Yes, this group of riders makes perfect sense.  You worship God, then you ride free in a world we are so blessed to live in.