Over the past 23 days riding I have had a lot of opportunities to pray.  I start each morning in prayer and then spend time reflecting on scripture or praying for different folks.  I also have more “situational” prayers.  Those are more about asking for opportunities to meet and and share with folks at various places, or safety on busy roads, maintaining control down long mountain descents (the bike isn’t too nimble with 50ish pounds of gear on it).  Also prayers for what to eat…. Yes it’s weird but asking God for guidance on what my body needs each day to keep it strong.  I prayed for healing for my right knee that became injured early in the ride and then for my left Achilles Tendon that became swollen and painful because I was over compensating to protect the knee (both are doing great right now fyi).  

These are the easy prayers…. Something comes up, we take it to the Lord for wisdom and guidance.  Doubtful anyone is praying to God for me not to meet people, to stay injured, to not make it safely down the road.  It’s the opposite, I know folks are being prayer partners for all these things!

But what about weather?  One of the biggest challenges I have had on the trip is the abnormal cold, snow, wind, and rain.  We are supposed to be in a dry and “getting warmer each day” pattern.  So yes, I have been praying for warmer and dryer.  But on the other side… I know folks in Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming are praying for and are thankful for the rain and snow.   They have told me so!  I have ridden by devastated forest because of wildfires that are bigger than normal because of the dry conditions.  I have ridden by reservoirs 30-50 feet below normal levels.  This morning I saw a “marina” where all the lfloating” docks are on dry ground and the entire bay is without water.

So the question is…. Whose prayer does God answer?  Mine for my trip or the folks out here who need the snow and rain.  Is it the numbers of people praying that persuade Him?  Or the more devout/righteous get his attention?   God hears the prayers, so how does he decide?   My reflection on this, while riding with numb feet and in the rain, is that He is sovereign and He does what He does because He is God.  He has his own reasons and purposes.  My part of these prayers is to pray in the right spirit and in the right way and with a humble heart.  Then I leave the answer to Him and His wisdom.  If the prayer is answered, I give Him the Glory!  If it is not, I give Him the respect that He is God and knows best.  In both cases I look to Him for wisdom and to learn from the prayers answered or not answered.  I look to the blessings that are there in both cases, although not always immediately evident in prayers not answered.

I am tired of learning about riding in snow, rain, cold and would like relief – no mistake there.  And remember I love snow normally!  In fact, tomorrow I have a very big mountain to ride over (Togwotee Pass).  My highest thus far at 9,655’ and 9+ miles of continuous climbing before I reach the top.  And… it’s supposed to be 40 degrees with rain and snow showers….  

But I am also satisfied with His decisions on what is best and will continue to seek the blessings.  If my ride is cold and wet but helps the region out here from burning or running low on water.  That’s better anyways.  It’s His decision!

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV)