Penelope

by Macy Johnson

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you

great and unsearchable things you do not know.”

(Jeremiah 33:3 NIV)

 

It was a quiet evening by the campfire at Watson Mill Bridge State Park. Jeff and I discussed dinner plans when children on bicycles zoomed past our campsite. An older woman cycled not far behind. My husband observed the activity and remarked, “That looks like fun.” 

 

We had pondered the possibility for many months of getting bikes. We admired cyclists as they leisurely pedaled around the campgrounds, but never seriously discussed it.

 

A few days after we returned home from camping, we conducted online research and visited our local discount mart to locate an advertised bicycle for me. It was not on the showroom floor, so I ordered it on my phone. Penelope arrived two days later in the van of a friendly FedEx driver.

 

My husband carefully assembled her and adjusted the seat and handlebars. I climbed up, sat down, and was flooded with childhood memories. My body screamed at me to get off! But visions of gliding through campgrounds alongside Jeff on his new bike, meeting people, and getting some exercise won over my fear.

 

God has often told me that I am never too old to learn something new or relearn something I have forgotten. Penelope is a basic Beach Cruiser, not a complicated mountain or racing bike. When a new wicker basket, cup holder, and safety cap/helmet arrive, I will take her for a maiden voyage in our neighborhood.

 

I promise to pedal slowly, be careful, and have fun! I know when my heavenly Father puts me on the seat of my new bike, I can trust Him to walk (or ride) with me.

 

I will look forward to all things, new and old, God is bringing my way. I hope you will, too!