[revcobb]

The Riders were welcomed last night at First Christian Church in Lynchburg, where the church's Wednesday night fellowship group hosted dinner and conversations. It was a great time for us at church to get to know the Riders better. It was also great to see the bus in the parking lot! The wrap with the logo and message is distinctive, and it's going to turn a bunch of heads on the highway. As Jeff Lutes said later, it's going to make drivers look a their passengers and say, "Ethel, did that bus say, 'lesbian'?"

Several Liberty students spoke at the worship service last night, along with Jeff Lutes, Azariah, Cailtlin, and Katie (I hope I got your names right--forgive me if I didn't). In between each speaker, Lynchburg singer-songwriter Paddy Dougherty sang some amazing songs including one called "I Have a Dream" that was written by my son's fifth grade class. It has some great words:

Chorus
I have a dream like Martin Luther King
that we're all one big family, living with equality
Sisters and brothers, caring for each other
Wherever you are from, no matter who you're lovin'
I have a dream, I have a dream, I have a dream

The courage and commitment of the Equality Riders is a deep inspiration. I wish them well as this afternoon the group is to meet with students at a local coffee shop to continue yesterday's converstions off campus. I'm also praying for the Word to be made flesh in each encounter they have. Truly, the Riders have an apostolic ministry. It was good to be a part of it, even from the fringes.

Any Riders reading this, know that you are welcome in Lynchburg anytime. We're really glad you're here this week. May God send you peace and fill you with joy!