Always for the Newcomer - Keep your Celebrate Recovery meeting Open Year Round!

I just have to begin the New Year with a bicycle story! I woke up late, thought it "too cold", or "they are too fast for me" - and decided for a number a number of reasons not to take the New Year's Day ride with the local CFC - "Cycling for Christ" group that began a ride from a near by bicycle shop at 8 a.m. today.

A little later in the day, I went on a ride on my own and nearly got side-tracked when a large black shepherd mix chased me down. This was funny to watch, as this big dog has apparently had "fun" with other cyclists in the neighboring community of Cedar Park.

I was riding along, minding my own business, when I saw this dog quickly charge from one side of the street to the other. He was hiding near a large bush in his front yard, but then sprang from cover at the appropriate time. He was huge - about the length of my bicycle frame - and fast. Did I mention fast!

Having graduated from the Road One Bicycling course, I knew that when dealing with a fast dog, you do not try to outrun it - just makes them more aggressive. Instead I hopped off the bike and kept it between me and the dog, all the while telling him he was a "bad dog", and "go home". He finally gave up as I slowly backed down the street.

I was reminded that when we are trying to do good, to develop a good habit, it is not unlike the enemy to side track us.

Tonight I went to my home CR group, our first meeting of 2009. Many of the regular attenders were present even in this season of holiday plans and travel, but we had one newcomer walk through the doors. I am so happy the leadership of my local CR made a commitment to continue meeting, though our regular meeting day put us on Christmas day and New Years day this year.

Three new participants joined us in the past week because we kept to the regular meeting schedule. Keep in mind that we have the large group meeting night for the new person who may come through the door - unexpected or unannounced.

Remember the hurts, habits, and hang-ups that bring members from your church or community to your recovery meeting - don't take breaks.

Blessings to you and your ministry team as you keep the doors open for anyone who may drop by to start on the "road to recovery".

Celebrating Recovery - each day in Christ! - Jim