Chaplin Timothy Moore, Sgt Tim Gray and Gary on the ‘platform’
The sun was shining bright and so was the Son. Gary introduced the two men: Active duty Sgt. Gray stationed at Ft. Bliss and Chaplain Moore of Pearl Harbor. Chaplain Moore served one tour in Iraq and Sgt. Gray served two. The men were met with a lot of cheers and clapping and honor. Then Sgt Gray led in the pledge to allegiance to our flag and Chaplain Moore prayed over the day. It was a great moment for Mission: M25 to be included in this beginning of Day 2.
We rode in hot weather for long periods of time today. It may not seem like much to you but we rode 402 miles, had a riders meeting, a ceremony at lunch and dinner. Plus the stress of riding so close for such long periods of time in heavy traffic. We had a lot of bike breakdowns which meant a lot of loading of bikes and catching up.
Hydration team at work
The hydration team pushed the refreshments at these folks like a well oiled machine. It is such a blessing watching them work and smile while doing it. They are always looking for a way to help someone – anyone. There are so many compliments from the riders, leaders and observers concerning the Mission:M25 team.
Yesterday during lunch, Shepherd (Gary Burd) was listening in on a conversation taking place across the isle. A man spoke up and stated that his Mom’s temperature hit 101 degrees and that it may mean he had to ride home, some 2000 miles at neck break speed. Shepherd simply asked the mom’s name and assured the man he would pray for her as he traveled. During the riders meeting the man came and stated that his mom received a ‘miracle’ and that her temperature went down to normal within 2 hours. He acknowledged it as a result of the prayer.
We talked as a team tonight about how big this event is – thousands of people have turned out to cheer us as we travel down the road. Commander David Moore gave the devotion on how important our role is. Please keep us in prayer – we are all carrying big loads at home with our ministries, jobs and families. Some have had really bad things happen at home but have felt they must finish the mission. We have had mechanical issues — with God’s help and your prayers – we believe we can complete RFTW 2010.
