Encouragement

My wife is Sandra Obrey, and a member of the 2011 Southern Tour.  Sandra is going to turn 40 this year when she starts the tour.  I don't know how many times we have laughed (and cried) about the fact that she must be crazy to be doing this at her age, especially when many of the riders on the team are almost half her age.  As she trains for this incredible event, her 40-year-old body is beginning to complain and complain loudly.  And me...her husband... her partner....and biggest fan, am not the best encourager.  I struggle between being a hard-core trainer, challenging her to work harder, work longer.  Yet who is there to be her shoulder to cry on and friend to complain to?  I find myself trying to be all those things, and not being completely successful at any of them.  I just know that she can do it.  That this most amazing women of God can accomplish anything because I am not all things for her.  He is.  Our Mighty King and Lord of Lords.  As Sandra and I go through the training together, I keep reminding us of a verse we teach our boys almost daily:   Galatians 6:9  "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."  The harvest that Ride:Well will reap is the clear message that clean water and blood are needed in Africa and that their hope can be found in the Living water. The harvest that Sandra will reap is the inspiration and encouragement to and for anybody who thinks they can't do something.  Something meaningful and powerful for themselves or the Kingdom of God.  Go Sandra!  I am so proud of you and love you so much.  Now go get on that bike and ride!