“Keep us from just singing; move us into action.”

We started our Sunday off with a pancake breakfast prepared by our team, and then had the privilege of joining our host church congregation for worship services.  The sermon was so fitting for our first biking day—it focused on getting up, getting out, and exercising our faith from the inside out.  Afterwards, we had the opportunity to share information about the Fuller Center and how we’re working to put faith and love into action.

Ryan

Ryan Ricketts, who had already been such a blessing to meet and spend time with, generously prepared HOMEMADE LASAGNA (meat and vegetarian!) for lunch.  We are so grateful for everyone who has shown us so much hospitality.  The First Church of God, especially Jenny Fry, treated us like family and SHOWERED us with God’s Love.  Thank you to everyone in Michigan who made us feel so welcome and so loved. 

Erika got her bike back!

Many prayers were answered today!  Erika’s bike FINALLY arrived in St Joseph’s because Megs’ dad was kind enough to deliver it from South Bend . . . and THEN he assisted Tony in a last minute assembly just in time to bike to Benton Harbor for the send off ceremony.   God truly is faithful and will provide when we trust in Him!

Dipping our bike tires in Lake Michigan before our first ride

We biked the first few miles to Lion’s Park in Benton Harbor.  After some photos, we all dipped our back tires into Lake Michigan.  After God carries us 1300 miles, we’re going to dip our front tires into the Gulf of Mexico.  J  

After the blessing . . . we were off!  The first 15 miles were and little rough on Lisa, who started on a mountain bike (she is one tough cookie!).  But in typical fashion, God was faithful and was ready and waiting to answer more prayers.  At our first rest stop, a supporter had an extra road bike and graciously loaned it to Lisa for the remaining 30 miles of the day.  It doesn’t stop there . . . He also led Ryan to a bike shop in South Bend with TWO bikes for sale in Lisa’s size, so she’ll be able to make the remaining 1265 miles on a road bike.  It’s true . . . “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find” (Matthew 7:7).

Ryan in front of "Touch Down Jesus"

We made a small detour to visit Ryan’s Alma Mater, Notre Dame.  After a total of 43 miles later, we arrived in South Bend, where we were met with a warm and welcome reception.  LeRoy and Phyllis Troyer prepared an amazing meal and opened their home to us for the evening.  Thank you, LeRoy and Phyllis.  We sincerely appreciate your generosity!

Millie  came along for the ride

We managed the 43 miles without too many incidents.  Eric did get the wonderful opportunity to practice his tube and tire changing skills, while Susan, Thad, Esther, and Melissa took minor spills, but they  are troopers and got right back on the bike and carried on.  Other than that, everyone made it safe and sound . . . even Millie, our pet inflatable shark Kristin is carrying on her handlebars.

The biking didn’t stop there!  We still had another half a mile to our next host Kern Road Mennonite Church.  We arrived and Kristin led some yoga while we took turns showering. 

We made it to Indiana

We’re so eager for our first build tomorrow.  Thank you to everyone supporting and praying for us!  Please continue to pray for us and this unique ministry.  J   We are looking forward to showing the community of South Bend that God loves them, and so do we.  

written by: Erika McLemore

photos by: Esther Hyejin Chung