Influence in High Places?

Nope, I do not have influence with people in high places. I’m not a personal friend of Bill Gates. Nor have I had an audience with the Queen of England. And I’ve not booked a marketing agent or a 60th birthday campaign committee (well, perhaps I have in the form of riders who are soliciting sponsors). It was with mustard seed faith that the $60,000 goal was set with Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties' Board of Directors.

Wonderful generosity has come from many places in honor of my mother--guests mother has hosted in her home, nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends who admire the woman I call “Mom.”

One day’s mail to Bridge of Hope brought a sizable gift from a volunteer at a charity where my mother donates significant time. Other gifts have come from businesses mother patronizes. Indeed, it is a joy to receive these gifts in her honor, many with notes of appreciation for her and affirmation of the 60 for Hope ride.

Equally inspiring are the stories from those who are riding with me. Last week I was deeply touch to hear the success of a youth rider who has received commitments of $1,500--and it's this rider's first association with Bridge of Hope! The pledge sheet of another youth totals $600. Truly those who have committed to pedal some miles are finding an amazing spirit of generosity in our community.

Likewise I have a host of wonderfully generous friends; believers in Bridge of Hope's mission to homeless mothers and their children. Even in this economic time, gifts have come from Maine to Kentucky, Indiana to Colorado and places in between! Awesome!

Each giver is placing confidence in the goals of this ride. And each donation helps to build a “community of hope” for fatherless children! Maybe this gang of riders does have influence in "High Places.” God be praised!

Together we wait and pray for the unfolding of 60 for Hope and a $60,000 miracle!