Rich Dixon is writing about interdependence.

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Cycling in groups often involves “drafting,” riding closely behind another rider.

When done correctly, the following rider can save as much as 30% of their energy. However, drafting can also be risky. Our FREEDOM TOUR 2018 team talked about this important relationship.

We read Matthew 5:13-16, focusing on this verse:

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Then, our team discussed drafting as a metaphor.

Drafting, for both the leader and the follower, requires care and intention.

The leader needs to choose the correct path, one that’s safe and predictable. Sudden, unexpected movements make trust difficult, and can be catastrophic for both riders.

The follower must trust the person in front to avoid obstacles. The follower is also responsible for being attentive, maintaining the proper distance between wheels to avoid a crash.

Some riders refuse to draft. They don’t want the responsibility of leading – “letting their like shine before others” – and they can’t seem to trust enough to follow. They’d rather ride solo.

Some folks are comfortable in the front, but don’t like following. Others are always followers.

I suspect much of this applies to life as well as cycling.

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It seems like “drafting” is integral to a journey with Jesus. He left us the responsibility to let our light shine, and he asks us to follow and trust him for the path, even when we can’t see where it leads.

Here are a few questions from our team discussion. Maybe they’ll prompt some reflection for you.

Are you one of the folks who prefers to ride solo?

When has this kind of “drafting” relationship, either as follower or leader, impacted you and your story?

Have you ever shied away from accepting the “leader” role? Why?

Ever needed to “draft” off someone? What happened?